APU and Averis Sdn. Bhd. collaborate on Joint OT Cyber Security Certified Training Programme

This collaboration aims to provide professionals with essential skills to combat rising threats in Operational Technology (OT), including knowledge transfer, and to improve APU’s Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science (Cyber Security) programme, ultimately strengthening cyber security expertise in the workforce and increasing graduates’ competitiveness in the job market.

Mr Herminto, Vice President of IT Group from Averis, and Prof Dr Ho Chin Kuan, Vice Chancellor of APU, shake hands to celebrate their recent MoA.

In an exciting development for the tech community, Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) has partnered with Averis Sdn. Bhd. (Averis) to launch a joint Operational Technology (OT) Cyber Security Certified Training Programme.

This collaboration aims to enhance cyber security skills specifically related to operational technology, addressing a critical area in the tech industry.

With APU’s stellar reputation in education and technological advancement, coupled with Averis’s extensive expertise in finance, human resources, consultancy, and information technology (IT) services, the organisations have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to formalise their collaboration.

This partnership is set to revolutionise the way professionals tackle the rising threats in OT security where the programme is designed to arm participants with the latest skills and knowledge essential for navigating the complex landscape of OT security.

Upon completion, participants will receive a prestigious certificate endorsed by APU, marking their successful training through Averis.

A highlight of the initiative is the knowledge transfer component, where Averis will provide training not only for university staff but also for APU’s students, preparing them for the ever-evolving challenges in cyber security.

The training content will be seamlessly integrated into APU’s Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science (Cyber Security) programme, specifically enriching the ‘Advanced Cyber Security’ module.

Graduates who complete this programme will be awarded an ‘Industry Certification of Completion’, jointly issued by APU and Averis, significantly enhancing their credentials in the job market.

“Our mission is to empower our staff and students with the vital skills needed to excel in the dynamic field of OT security,” said Prof Dr Ho Chin Kuan, Vice Chancellor of APU, added, “Reskilling is crucial, and we are committed to leading this effort.”

This strategic partnership will fortify APU’s cybersecurity programme, arming students with the tools to neutralize evolving OT threats and position them as industry leaders.

Mr Herminto, Vice President of Group IT from Averis, spoke at the event “Averis is proud to provide both the content and training for this course. We are thrilled about this collaboration between Averis and APU as our commitment to upskill the future workforce aligns perfectly with APU’s goals, and together, we are set to train the next generation of Cyber Security and OT professionals.”

Also present were Assoc Prof Dr Thang Ka Fei, Head School of Technology (SoT); Ts Dr Vinesha Selvarajah, Industry Liaison Head of Technology; Dr Julia Juremi, Head of APU’s Forensics and Cyber Security Research Center (FSeC); and Prof Dr Simon David Scott, APU’s Research and Development Manager.

The other representatives from Averis include Ts Shankar Karthikason, Group Head of Cyber Security; Dr Albert Lee, Lead of Averis Learning Institute; Ms Bernie Yong, Lead of Talent Management & Learning and Development; Ms Chin Ee Ling, Lead of Human Resources Business Partner; Ms Noor Asmaliza Romlee, Lead of Public Policy & Government Relations; and Ms Lynn Dhia, Lead of Corporate Communications and Employer Branding.

“This collaboration with Averis marks a significant milestone in equipping professionals and students with the critical skills needed to address the unique challenges in OT cybersecurity.

“By integrating industry expertise into our training and academic curriculum, we are fostering a future-ready workforce that can effectively safeguard vital systems against emerging threats,” said Ts Dr Vinesha.

This innovative training programme not only fosters collaboration between academia and industry but also ensures that students gain practical, relevant training that meets current cyber security demands.

The industry certification enhances graduates’ skill sets, making them more competitive in today’s job market.

Ultimately, this joint initiative will bolster the overall cyber security landscape by equipping professionals with the expertise they need to safeguard organisations against emerging threats.

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