In a major step forward for technology education in Pakistan, Habib University has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the CISCO Networking Academy. This collaboration, formalized on May 20, 2025, aims to significantly enhance digital literacy, networking knowledge, and IT capabilities for students and faculty members, positioning the university as a key player in Pakistan’s digital transformation journey.
The CISCO Networking Academy is a globally recognized IT and cybersecurity education initiative that has trained over 17 million learners worldwide. With its curriculum now set to be integrated into Habib University’s academic offerings, students will gain access to internationally accredited courses, hands-on labs, and industry-relevant certifications. These learning opportunities are expected to improve graduates’ employability and competitiveness in today’s fast-evolving job market.
The official signing ceremony took place at Habib University’s Karachi campus, attended by prominent figures from both organizations. Among the key attendees were Mr. Asif Husain from CISCO Pakistan, Mr. Saeed Ahmed Khan, Joint Director IT at the State Bank of Pakistan, and Qazi Nauman Mujahid, CEO of Digitech Infra. University faculty, staff, and students were also present, underscoring the importance of the occasion and the widespread support for the initiative.
Through this partnership, Habib University has officially joined the global network of CISCO Networking Academies. This affiliation will enable its students and educators to access a rich repository of learning resources in critical IT domains, including networking, cybersecurity, Internet of Things (IoT), and digital infrastructure. These offerings will not only bolster academic performance but also provide learners with the tools and credentials needed to excel in professional IT roles.
This move aligns closely with the growing demand for skilled digital professionals across Pakistan’s economy. As industries increasingly adopt cloud computing, data-driven operations, and secure digital frameworks, educational institutions have a responsibility to equip graduates with future-ready skills. Habib University’s decision to embed CISCO’s industry-leading curriculum is a strategic investment in developing that talent pipeline.
Speaking on the occasion, a university representative highlighted the long-term vision of the partnership. “By becoming an official CISCO Networking Academy, we are investing in the future of our students and contributing to the digital advancement of Pakistan. This partnership reflects our commitment to providing globally competitive education that meets the needs of the modern workforce.”
For CISCO, the partnership is another milestone in its mission to support inclusive digital development. The Networking Academy program is designed to make high-quality IT education accessible to learners in both developed and emerging markets. By empowering students with the skills and certifications needed to thrive in digital careers, the program is helping to reduce skills gaps and accelerate innovation worldwide.
As Habib University begins implementation of the CISCO Academy curriculum, students can look forward to acquiring in-demand technical skills that will open doors to opportunities both locally and globally. The initiative also lays a foundation for deeper academic-industry collaboration, potentially leading to internships, mentorships, and employment pathways in Pakistan’s growing tech sector.
This strategic alliance signifies more than just an academic upgrade — it represents a bold step toward digital empowerment, ensuring that the next generation of Pakistani professionals is ready to shape and thrive in the future of work.
