On December 2–4, 2024, at the University of Aveiro, Portugal, was hosted the kick-off meeting of the Erasmus+ SECURE project. This transformative initiative aims to strengthen cybersecurity expertise in Georgia and Ukraine by focusing on next-generation technologies such as 5G, AI/ML, and Quantum Cryptography. The project is funded under the Erasmus+ Capacity Building in Higher Education program and implemented by a consortium of nine universities from Ukraine, Georgia, Portugal, Spain, and Lithuania.

The meeting brought together project partners to refine plans, align strategies, and discuss key goals for the upcoming stages.

Highlights of the Kick-Off Meeting:

• Collaborative Planning: discussions centered on project timelines, working styles, milestones, and deliverables. The consortium ensured a shared understanding of responsibilities to ensure a smooth implementation process.
• Educational Development: plans were initiated for the creation of four innovative courses covering essential areas such as 5G security, AI/ML, and Quantum Cryptography. These courses aim to address critical challenges in cybersecurity education and workforce training.
• Innovative Laboratories: preparations began for the establishment of six advanced laboratories—three each in Georgia and Ukraine. These facilities will focus on cutting-edge research in 5G/6G security, AI/ML applications, and Quantum technologies.
• Teacher Training and Professional Development: strategies were outlined for equipping academic and administrative staff with the skills and tools necessary to sustain the project's long-term impact.

The event also included detailed presentations from various work package leads, discussions on best practices, and a roadmap for upcoming deliverables. Parallel sessions on the final day allowed partners to delve deeper into specific work areas, ensuring clarity and alignment for the next phases of the project.

A Vision for the Future

The SECURE project aspires to empower Georgia and Ukraine with advanced competencies in cybersecurity, fostering international collaboration and creating a skilled workforce to address the demands of next-generation technologies. With nine academic partners and a clear roadmap, the project is set to make a significant contribution to global cybersecurity research and education.