This collaboration aims to equip students with hands-on cyber security skills and globally recognized certifications, addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in the cybersecurity industry
Check Point Software Technologies Ltd., a pioneer and global leader of cyber security solutions, today announced the signing of a program agreement with Chandigarh University to provide students with access to the Check Point SecureAcademy educational program. This collaboration aims to equip students with hands-on cyber security skills and globally recognized certifications, addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in the cybersecurity industry.
Chandigarh University, a NAAC A+ Grade and QS World Ranked institution, is among India’s fastest-growing universities, offering over 100 programs across diverse disciplines. Recognized as ‘The University with Best Placements’ by WCRC, CU combines academic rigor with industry-aligned curricula to prepare students for the global workforce. With its focus on innovation, employability, and global exposure, the university continues to shape the future of higher education in India.
“Our efforts through this collaboration support the vision of a secure and resilient ‘Digital India’, fostering both innovation and trust in the country’s digital future.”
-Sundar Balasubramanian, Managing Director, Check Point Software Technologies, India & South Asia
Through this partnership, students at Chandigarh University will gain access to Check Point’s world-class training resources, valued at $60,000 annually, including cutting-edge software, self-paced online content, eBooks, guest lectures, and participation in international community events. The initiative will empower students with industry-recognized certifications and practical skills to strengthen their career prospects in the fast-evolving cybersecurity landscape. The program is expected to train approximately 100 students in its first year, with students officially beginning their coursework during the Winter School in January 2026. Notably, students will enjoy unlimited access to their eBooks as part of the learning journey.
As part of the program, Chandigarh University faculty will receive specialized training and orientation from Check Point experts, while students will benefit from hands-on lab sessions, discounted certification exams, and exposure to real-world cybersecurity tools and technologies. The collaboration is designed to equip learners with globally recognized credentials and industry-relevant skills, ensuring they are job-ready. Students will receive an 85% discount on the certification exam (bringing the cost down from $300 to $45), and those who pass will earn an industry-recognized credential that can significantly enhance their job prospects. Universities can establish their own on-premise or cloud-based lab environments using Check Point’s setup guides and software licenses. Learners will also gain access to global virtual events and guest lectures, ensuring exposure to international best practices and trends.This partnership reinforces Check Point’s commitment to bridging the cybersecurity skill gap while supporting India’s vision of developing future-ready digital talent.
India is facing a critical cybersecurity skills shortage, with an estimated demand for one million cybersecurity professionals, while only half that number is currently available. The lack of structured learning pathways, especially at undergraduate and early career levels, is a key challenge, leaving organizations vulnerable to increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. As per Check Point’s Threat Intelligence Report, Indian organizations face an average of 3,247 cyberattacks per week, nearly double the global average of 1,981. The need for practical, hands-on cyber security training has never been more urgent, as traditional IT programs often fail to equip students with defense-oriented, analytical, and compliance-focused skills.
“In India, the demand for cybersecurity skills is growing rapidly; however, the market struggles with a severe skill gap, failing to meet industry demands. This program agreement is designed to provide students and faculty with hands-on training, structured learning, and globally recognized certifications through Check Point SecureAcademy™. By equipping students with practical, industry-relevant knowledge, we aim to prepare the next generation of cyber defenders to meet real-world challenges. As India accelerates toward digital transformation with 5G, AI, cloud adoption, and other emerging technologies, it is crucial to ensure a secure foundation for our digital ecosystem. Our efforts through this collaboration support the vision of a secure and resilient ‘Digital India’, fostering both innovation and trust in the country’s digital future,” said Sundar Balasubramanian, Managing Director, Check Point Software Technologies, India & South Asia.
“Cyber security is one of the most in-demand skills today, and at Chandigarh University, we are committed to embracing the opportunities of the digital era. Partnering with Check Point gives our learners direct access to cutting-edge training and globally recognized certifications that will strengthen their employability and career readiness. This collaboration reflects our focus on combining academic excellence with industry expertise, ensuring our students are future-ready and well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to India’s digital growth,’’ said Prof. (Dr.) Sachin Ahuja, Executive Director – Engineering, Chandigarh University.
The program agreement marks a significant milestone in advancing India’s cybersecurity education ecosystem. By combining Check Point’s industry expertise with Chandigarh University’s academic excellence, the initiative will not only benefit enrolled students but also contribute to building a larger pool of skilled professionals. This collaboration reaffirms the shared vision of both organizations to strengthen India’s digital resilience and future workforce.
