Many studies confirm the significance of programming skills in the ever-evolving cybersecurity field and its know-how plays a pivotal role in safeguarding critical systems and data. This paper presents a preliminary finding from a pilot study that explores the potential benefits of tailoring a basic Python programming course to cater specifically to the educational requirements of budding cybersecurity professionals. The primary objective is to explore the potential advantages of adapting a conventional programming course to incorporate cybersecurity-focused elements. The pilot implementation of a course went through a series of modifications embedding cybersecurity-centric motivational content, increased emphasis on code analysis skills, hands-on approach to encompass contemporary tools and cybersecurity challenges. The pilot was carried out over a single semester with 36 participants, and its impacts were assessed through the analysis of student feedback, performance metrics, educator observations, and empirical experiences. Preliminary findings indicate a noticeable rise in students' interest in the course, study motivation, and enhanced overall learning experiences. However, the study reveals to a lesser extent improvement in academic performance. These findings contribute to the ongoing dialogue regarding programming education in the cybersecurity domain, emphasizing the potential of tailoring programming courses to align with specific needs by incorporating cybersecurity-focused elements and emphasizing relevant skills, such as code analysis and hands-on experience with contemporary tools and challenges, programming courses can become more valuable and engaging for students seeking cybersecurity careers.

Recent European Union (EU) studies have found that cybersecurity skills are in very high demand across Europe, leading to demands for harmonisation and consolidation in cybersecurity education and training. In response to this demand, the paper advocates for the harmonisation and consolidation of cybersecurity education and training, presenting case studies from two noteworthy projects-CyberSecPro, EU-CIP and NERO, and explores the possible harmonisation of cybersecurity education and training that enhances cybersecurity expertise and resilience in the EU. The first case study focuses on conducting a market demand survey on the cybersecurity skills and competencies required in the workforce. Furthermore, it analyses the cybersecurity education programmes and training offered in EU higher education institutes (HEIs) within the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) context. This case study identifies implications for improving cybersecurity study modules and outlines steps to upgrade cybersecurity practical education and training offerings in higher education while working closely with industry. The second case study comes from the EU-CIP project and focuses on specialised cybersecurity education and training for critical infrastructure protection and resilience in the EU. The second study advocates the open study offerings and importance of establishing online training and mentoring services. Its focus was on developing cybersecurity skills, defining learning paths, enhancing competencies, and fostering the co-creation of a collective European knowledge hub for critical infrastructure protection and cybersecurity information resilience (CIP/CIR). The findings from these case studies outline the harmonisation approach of cybersecurity studies in the EU and contribute to the development of data-driven and evidence-based policymaking processes for boosting the innovation capacity of critical infrastructure operators and authorities in the EU.

The health care sector faces growing and evolving cybersecurity threats and pressing need to enhance its cybersecurity education programmes. Many research study confirms the growing gap of cybersecurity and digitalisation know-how for the healthcare professionals. Robust cybersecurity education is crucial to equipping healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to safeguard sensitive patient information and maintain the integrity of healthcare systems. This paper presents a master's programme titled “Managing Digital Transformation in the Health Sector” (ManagiDiTH) jointly implemented by universities in four different countries. The innovative master's programme includes 3 focus areas- health sector skills, societal skills and digital skills. The ManagiDiTH programme integrates cybersecurity education into a broader framework of digital transformation skills for health professionals with interconnectedness of cybersecurity and healthcare innovation. The programme emphasises practical learning through hands-on exercises and case studies, allowing students to apply cybersecurity principles to real-world healthcare scenarios. It also fosters collaboration among students from diverse backgrounds, encouraging the exchange of knowledge and the development of a comprehensive understanding of cybersecurity threats and mitigation strategies. The ManagiDiTH framework addresses the very specific cybersecurity challenges faced by the healthcare sector, including data breaches, ransomware attacks, and the increasing use of technology in patient care. It equips healthcare students including nurses with the necessary skills to identify and respond to these threats, as well as to conduct risk assessments and implement cybersecurity best practices. The paper presents the novel education programme that combines cybersecure digitalisation aspects of critical field of the health care.

This study explores and delves into Laurea University of Applied Science's cybersecurity education programme and its associated research, development, and innovation action (R&D&IA) initiatives. Laurea's cybersecurity programme stands out for its innovative approach that seamlessly integrates academic pursuits with real-world industry needs and innovation projects. The program goes beyond traditional teaching methods. Research by Laurea faculty explores how to effectively incorporate research elements into the curriculum, aligning with the university's “Learning by Developing” and “Resilient Learning” philosophies. These concepts find practical application in the “Work-Life Practices” cybersecurity training module. This forward-thinking approach offers several benefits. Integrating international research projects and industry partners into the curriculum exposes students to cutting-edge knowledge and fosters a culture of research within higher education. It also emphasizes the resilience of educational systems in the face of evolving challenges. Students gain valuable experience in a dynamic learning landscape, honing not just technical skills but also crucial soft skills like communication, teamwork, and respecting diversity. The article presents the empirical research and experiences of research study journey. Nevertheless, it is important to acknowledge that the effective integration of research elements into the curriculum may necessitate increased effort and commitment from faculty members. Laurea's cybersecurity education module is an excellent example of how higher education institutions can effectively combine learning, research-innovation, and industry collaboration. This approach offers students a unique opportunity to learn about cybersecurity at a practical level while benefiting companies in terms of future talent recruitment and knowledge exchange. This innovative module was recognized with Laurea's 2022 R&D&I Innovation Award, a testament to its exceptional integration of research, development, and innovation into the learning process. Laurea's approach to cybersecurity education demonstrates a successful model for preparing students for industry demands and working-life readiness. Their experiences serve as valuable inspiration and provide best practices for other educational institutions striving to align their programmes with industry and working-life needs in our digital age.

Cybersecurity skilled workforce is a critical challenge for Europe. The increasing sophistication and frequency of cyberattacks demand a skilled and competent workforce to protect digital infrastructure and ensure online safety. This paper presents a viable solution for European cybersecurity workforce development and capacity-building efforts, leveraging the European Cybersecurity Skills Framework (ECSF) to facilitate cybersecurity training and professional workforce development. The paper begins by highlighting the cybersecurity workforce shortage and the challenges faced by higher education institutes in providing relevant education and training. It then emphasises the need for a qualified and competent cybersecurity workforce considering the increased cyber threats and risks. The paper explores ECSF as a solution for skilling, upskilling, and reskilling in the cybersecurity sector interwinding with a project case. Next, the paper presents a case study of the “CyberSecPro” and “NERO” projects that aims to equip the workforce with cutting-edge and relevant education and training. The paper argues that ECSF provides a common language and framework for cybersecurity skills and competencies development, harmonising education, training, and workforce development efforts across Europe. The case study outlines the methodology for selecting training modules aligned with the working-life demands and underscores the importance of collaboration between educational institutions, industry stakeholders, and government bodies to meet the cybersecurity workforce capacity-building goals. The paper concludes that ECSF is a valuable tool if used appropriately for addressing the cybersecurity workforce shortage and build European cybersecurity skills capacity.