Pioneering Innovation and Green Tech in Hong Kong

Like Digg Del Tumblr VKontakte Buffer Love This Odnoklassniki Meneame Blogger Amazon Yahoo Mail Gmail AOL Newsvine HackerNews Evernote MySpace Mail.ru Viadeo Line Comments Yummly SMS Viber Telegram Subscribe Skype Facebook Messenger Kakao LiveJournal Yammer Edgar Fintel Mix Instapaper Copy Link Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) and the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong (CMA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that aims to propel innovation and technology development in Hong Kong, with a specific emphasis on advancing green and life science technologies. The overarching goal is to create a robust framework for collaborative research and facilitate the seamless transfer of knowledge between academia and industry. At the core of this university-industry partnership lies a commitment to fostering progress in key areas such as green finance, carbon neutrality, biotechnology, property technology, and sustainability. By pooling their resources and expertise, HKBU and CMA aim to tackle innovation challenges faced by these industries head-on. Central to their approach is the sharing of cutting-edge technological updates emanating from the research community and dynamic start-ups. The collaboration extends beyond the academic realm, with both parties actively exploring potential opportunities for business matching, commercialisation, and collaborative research initiatives. The MoU was inked by Professor Terence Lau, serving as the Interim Chief Innovation Officer of HKBU, and Mr. Ralph Chow, the Chief Executive Officer of CMA. Several distinguished figures from HKBU the CMA were in attendance. The President and Vice-Chancellor of HKBU articulated HKBU’s strong support for translational research. He provided insights into ongoing initiatives, notably the establishment of a Chinese medicine translational centre at the Hong Kong Science Park. This centre, grounded in the foundations of Chinese medicine, is envisioned as a hub for technology development and demonstration, facilitating innovative and translational projects related to health. These initiatives, Professor Wai emphasised, align with HKBU’s broader commitment to innovation and entrepreneurial development. The President of CMA highlighted the practical benefits of establishing closer ties between HKBU’s research team and industries. He emphasised that such collaboration enables the prompt dissemination of research outcomes to the industry, providing an avenue for industry matching and collaborative research opportunities. Furthermore, industries can share their challenges and pain points encountered during the innovation and transformation process with HKBU researchers. This reciprocal exchange ensures that research efforts closely align with the technological development trends and market demands of different industries, enhancing efficiency and competitiveness. The collaborative venture between HKBU and CMA goes beyond the confines of traditional academic-industry relationships. It represents a dynamic and forward-thinking approach to addressing the complex challenges and opportunities presented by the evolving landscape of innovation and technology. By leveraging their collective strengths, the partners aspire to contribute significantly to the advancement of Hong Kong’s industrial and commercial landscape. The MOU sets the stage for a multifaceted collaboration that encompasses research, technology transfer, and knowledge dissemination. Looking ahead, the partnership envisions a series of engagements in green finance, carbon neutrality, biotechnology, property technology, and sustainability. The collaborative research agenda will be informed by the latest technological advancements and market dynamics, ensuring that the efforts of HKBU and CMA remain at the forefront of industry needs. As part of their commitment to knowledge transfer, the partners plan to use their extensive promotion channels and networks to share market insights, knowledge, and technology trends. Seminars and forums will serve as platforms for fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and facilitating meaningful connections between academia and industry. The MOU between HKBU and CMA marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in the realms of innovation and technology development in Hong Kong. The partnership not only underscores the commitment of both entities to push the boundaries of knowledge but also exemplifies the potential for academia and industry to collaborate synergistically for the greater good of society. As they embark on this journey together, HKBU and CMA stand poised to make significant contributions to the thriving ecosystem of innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development in Hong Kong. Like Digg Del Tumblr VKontakte Buffer Love This Odnoklassniki Meneame Blogger Amazon Yahoo Mail Gmail AOL Newsvine HackerNews Evernote MySpace Mail.ru Viadeo Line Comments Yummly SMS Viber Telegram Subscribe Skype Facebook Messenger Kakao LiveJournal Yammer Edgar Fintel Mix Instapaper Copy Link Singapore and the Republic of Korea (ROK) recently solidified their commitment to tackle critical challenges in energy and climate change through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which signifies a joint effort to foster discussion platforms, explore collaborations, and encourage stakeholders to seize business opportunities. This strategic partnership centres around five key areas of focus, emphasising long-term emissions reduction strategies, sustainable trade practices, regulatory frameworks, energy technologies, and private-sector collaboration. The collaborative spirit between Singapore and the ROK holds particular significance against the backdrop of robust economic ties. Anchored by the Korea-Singapore Free Trade Agreement and the Korea-Singapore Digital Partnership Agreement, both nations have witnessed a substantial increase in bilateral trade. The ROK emerged as Singapore’s 7th largest trading partner in 2022, reflecting a 26% increase in bilateral merchandise trade compared to 2021. Investment flows between the two countries have also shown a consistent upward trajectory, growing by an average of 21% annually from 2017 to 2021. Beyond economic prosperity, the MoU underscores a shared commitment to environmental stewardship. It recognises that sustainable economic growth is intrinsically linked to responsible environmental practices. By collectively addressing the challenges posed by climate change and energy transitions, Singapore and the ROK exemplify the power of international collaboration in addressing global issues. This collaborative spirit extends beyond energy and climate change to highlight the importance of digital partnership agreements. Such agreements play a crucial role in facilitating collaboration between diverse entities, ranging from businesses to government bodies. They serve as instrumental tools in fostering shared resources, and joint projects and addressing common challenges. Moreover, the collaboration between Singapore and the ROK aligns with the principles that underpin effective international partnerships. As the world grapples with complex issues, such collaborative efforts serve as beacons of hope, demonstrating that by working together, nations can achieve meaningful and impactful outcomes. Transitioning to a low-carbon economy is a shared goal for nations globally, and the collaboration between Singapore and the ROK aligns seamlessly with this imperative. One key aspect of a low-carbon economy is the focus on reducing carbon emissions and minimising environmental impact by optimising resource utilisation. Besides, digital transformation provides businesses and industries with the tools for efficient resource management through data-driven insights, predictive analytics, and smart resource management systems. Decision-making in a low-carbon economy involves analysing environmental data to identify areas for improvement and implement sustainable practices. Digital transformation complements this by offering the capabilities to collect, analyse, and interpret vast amounts of data. This enables organisations to make informed decisions regarding energy consumption, emissions, and overall sustainability, aligning with the goals of a low-carbon economy. Implementing smart infrastructure and energy management solutions is crucial for achieving energy efficiency and reducing carbon footprints in a low-carbon economy. Digital transformation plays a vital role in this regard, with IoT devices, sensors, and smart technologies contributing to the creation of intelligent infrastructure. This optimisation of energy usage promotes sustainability across various sectors, including buildings and transportation. Collaboration among businesses, governments, and communities is essential for implementing sustainable practices in a low-carbon economy. Digital transformation supports such collaborative ecosystems through digital platforms and tools that enhance communication and cooperation. These platforms facilitate partnerships that support sustainable initiatives and enable the exchange of eco-friendly technologies. Encouraging innovation in clean technologies, renewable energy, and sustainable practices is a key focus of a low-carbon economy. Digital transformation serves as an enabler of innovation by providing tools such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and automation. These technologies contribute to the development and adoption of sustainable solutions across various industries. Like Digg Del Tumblr VKontakte Buffer Love This Odnoklassniki Meneame Blogger Amazon Yahoo Mail Gmail AOL Newsvine HackerNews Evernote MySpace Mail.ru Viadeo Line Comments Yummly SMS Viber Telegram Subscribe Skype Facebook Messenger Kakao LiveJournal Yammer Edgar Fintel Mix Instapaper Copy Link Prime Minister Narendra Modi has introduced the Global Digital Public Infrastructure Repository (GDPIR) and a Social Impact Fund (SIF). The GDPIR will be used for sharing information and best practices and the SIF is designed to advance Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). He unveiled the schemes during the Virtual G20 Leaders’ Summit last week. Chaired by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the G20 Digital Economy Working Group (DEWG) has played a key role in progressing the global DPI agenda. Through determined negotiation efforts, the DEWG achieved the historic milestone of the first-ever multilateral consensus on DPI. The Digital Economy Ministers’ Meeting (DEMM) unanimously endorsed three DPI deliverables, including a framework for building DPI, the mobilisation of finances for low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and the establishment of a GDPIR. The consensus was also reaffirmed in the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration (NDLD). Global Digital Infrastructure Repository MeitY developed the Global Digital Infrastructure Repository, a comprehensive resource hub that consolidates crucial insights and expertise from G20 members and guest nations. Its primary aim is to bridge the knowledge gap in making choices and employing methodologies required for the design, construction, deployment, and governance of DPIs. Its primary purpose is to address the knowledge gap in making informed choices and employing effective methodologies for the design, construction, deployment, and governance of Digital Public Infrastructures (DPIs). The GDPIR presents information in a standardised format, showcasing the experiences of countries and organisations that have successfully developed DPIs at scale. This includes elements such as maturity scales, source codes (where available), and governance frameworks. Currently, the GDPIR features 54 DPIs from 16 countries. Social Impact Fund The Social Impact Fund is envisioned as a government-led, multi-stakeholder initiative aimed at accelerating the implementation of DPI in the global south. India has pledged an initial commitment of US$ 25 million to the project. The fund will provide financial support to offer both upstream technical and non-technical assistance to countries in developing DPI systems. The SIF provides a platform for various stakeholders, including other governments, international organisations, and philanthropic entities, to contribute and collectively fast-track the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in LMICs through DPIs. In India, DPI comprises the India Stack, a set of domestically created digital solutions implemented nationwide. It includes APIs and digital public assets that enable the widespread use of digital identity, data, and payments as fundamental economic elements. Key components include Unified Payments Interface (India’s instant payments system), Aadhaar (the government’s digital identity card), and DigiLocker (a secure document access platform on a public cloud). India Stack enhances access to and the delivery of public services, with the overarching goals of achieving widespread connectivity, promoting digital inclusion, and ensuring seamless access to public services. Built on open technologies, these solutions are interoperable and crafted to encourage active participation from industry and community stakeholders, thereby fostering innovation. In September, India signed three separate memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with Sierra Leone, Antigua & Barbuda, and Armenia to share experiences and digital solutions, including India Stack. The agreements aligned with several government initiatives, including Digital India, Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India), and Make in India, among others. These initiatives collectively aim to propel the nation toward a digitally empowered society and a knowledge-based economy. As the landscape continues to evolve, there is a pressing need to delve into business opportunities, share best practices, and attract investments within the digital sector. Like Digg Del Tumblr VKontakte Buffer Love This Odnoklassniki Meneame Blogger Amazon Yahoo Mail Gmail AOL Newsvine HackerNews Evernote MySpace Mail.ru Viadeo Line Comments Yummly SMS Viber Telegram Subscribe Skype Facebook Messenger Kakao LiveJournal Yammer Edgar Fintel Mix Instapaper Copy Link The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) inaugurated the Research Centre for Assistive Technology (RCATech), a new centre dedicated to spearheading research and development in assistive device design and technology and rehabilitation research. With the overarching goal of fostering an inclusive and accessible society, RCATech is the first research centre for assistive technology among Hong Kong’s educational institutions. RCATech has entered into collaborative agreements with international research institutes and local industry partners, signifying a concerted effort to push the boundaries of assistive technology. The centre is committed to multidisciplinary research, engaging with local non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and partnering with global educational institutions. This collaboration extends its reach beyond the academic realm to industry partners, creating a nexus for transformative technology that benefits society at large. Within Hong Kong, RCATech has established partnerships with five local NGOs: The Hong Kong Society for the Aged, Innovation Hub, Elderly Resources Centre of Hong Kong Housing Society, Hong Kong PHAB Association, SAHK, and Association for Engineering and Medical Volunteers Services. These partnerships serve as a testament to RCATech’s commitment to engaging with diverse stakeholders in the community to ensure the relevance and impact of its research. On the international front, RCATech has forged alliances with two renowned research centres: the AGE-WELL Network of Centres of Excellence at the University of Toronto in Canada and the Rehabilitation Research Institute of Singapore (RRIS) at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore. These collaborations signify a global approach to assistive technology research, leveraging the expertise and resources of institutions beyond Hong Kong’s borders. A notable figure in RCATech’s network is the former Secretary for Transport and Housing of the HKSAR government and the current Hong Kong Deputy to the National People’s Congress, who serves as the Honorary Advisor. His presence reflects the high-profile support and recognition that RCATech has garnered, indicating the centre’s significance in assistive technology. The inauguration ceremony of RCATech, held at the PolyU campus on 20 November, was a momentous occasion marked by the signing of collaborative agreements with international educational institutions and industry partners. These agreements reinforce RCATech’s commitment to building a robust research platform and advancing the development of assistive technology. The collaboration was formalised via a Master Research Collaboration Agreement signed by the Vice President (Research and Innovation) at PolyU, and the Executive Director of RRIS, NTU. During the inauguration ceremony, the Associate Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU, highlighted the shared vision of RCATech and its partners in pursuing collaborative research and development activities in rehabilitation. The establishment of RCATech is deemed a significant milestone in the collaborative efforts among academics, industry professionals, and researchers working on assistive technology to create an inclusive and accessible society. The Executive Director, RRIS, NTU expressed confidence in the joint efforts, emphasising their commitment to harnessing the latest technologies and patient data to enhance the lives of those in need. He lauded RCATech’s multidisciplinary approach and international collaborations, envisioning the centre as a beacon in the pursuit of excellence in assistive technology. Additionally, the PolyU Faculty of Health and Social Sciences has solidified a partnership with HKT to bolster research projects on the PolyU campus. Leveraging HKT’s 5G network coverage and services, this collaboration is poised to accelerate research initiatives, particularly those focused on assistive technology, benefiting the healthcare industry. The Dean of the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences (FHSS) at PolyU underscored the university’s unique position as the first in Hong Kong to establish a dedicated research centre for assistive technology. The distinctive combination of disciplines – rehabilitation, health sciences, design, environmental studies, and engineering – working alongside the PolyU Industrial Centre sets the stage for cutting-edge developments in assistive technology. Like Digg Del Tumblr VKontakte Buffer Love This Odnoklassniki Meneame Blogger Amazon Yahoo Mail Gmail AOL Newsvine HackerNews Evernote MySpace Mail.ru Viadeo Line Comments Yummly SMS Viber Telegram Subscribe Skype Facebook Messenger Kakao LiveJournal Yammer Edgar Fintel Mix Instapaper Copy Link Optical scientists have devised a novel method to significantly enhance the potency of fibre lasers while preserving their beam quality, positioning them as a pivotal defence technology against low-cost drones and other applications such as remote sensing. The collaborative effort involved researchers from the University of South Australia (UniSA), the University of Adelaide (UoA), and Yale University, and their achievement is documented in the prestigious scientific journal Nature Communications. Dr Linh Nguyen, a co-first author of the research and a researcher at UniSA’s Future Industries Institute, elucidates that the innovative approach demonstrated in the study can amplify the power in fibre lasers by three-to-nine times using multimode optical fibre, all the while maintaining beam quality crucial for focusing on distant targets. This technological breakthrough holds immense potential for various applications, with particular emphasis on its role in the defence industry, where high-power fibre lasers play a vital role. Dr Nguyen underscores the significance of high-power fibre lasers in manufacturing and defence, particularly in the contemporary landscape marked by the widespread use of low-cost unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly known as drones, in modern battle scenarios. He notes that a swarm of inexpensive drones can swiftly deplete missile resources, leaving military assets and vehicles with diminished firing power for missions critical to combat. In this context, high-power fibre lasers emerge as a strategic solution due to their low cost per shot and the rapidity of light action. This strategic advantage, termed as asymmetric advantage, leverages a cost-effective approach to overpower more expensive, high-tech systems through sheer numerical superiority. The researcher emphasises the unique role of high-power fibre lasers in providing a viable long-term defence solution, aligning with the concept of asymmetric advantage. This capability not only safeguards against the challenges posed by cheap drones but also aligns with the objectives outlined in the Defence Strategic Review and AUKUS Pillar 2 objectives, offering a deterrent effect that is integral to defence strategies. Dr Ori Henderson-Sapir, a project investigator at UoA’s Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, places this achievement in the broader context of Australia’s historical prowess in developing innovative fibre optics technologies. He sees this research as propelling Australia into a world-leading position for the next generation of high-power fibre lasers, with applications extending beyond defence to contribute to new scientific discoveries. The researchers, having successfully demonstrated their technology in fibre lasers, are poised to share their findings at Photonics West, a premier international conference on photonics technology scheduled for early 2024. This platform will offer a global stage for presenting their advancements, fostering collaboration, and advancing the integration of high-power fibre lasers into diverse fields. The collaborative efforts of researchers from UniSA, UoA, and Yale University have yielded a transformative breakthrough in the realm of optical science. Their innovative approach to increasing the power of fibre lasers, coupled with maintaining beam quality, opens new frontiers for applications ranging from defence against drones to scientific exploration. The implications of this research extend beyond national boundaries, positioning Australia as a frontrunner in the development of cutting-edge fibre optic technologies with global significance. Australian researchers’ breakthrough in fibre laser technology, achieving three-to-nine times power increase without compromising beam quality, holds significant implications for national defence. With a focus on countering low-cost drones, this innovation aligns with the Defense Strategic Review and AUKUS Pillar 2 objectives. The development, a collaboration between the University of South Australia, the University of Adelaide, and Yale University, positions Australia as a global leader in cutting-edge defence technology. The government’s emphasis on technological advancements, economic implications, and international collaboration underscores the broader impact of this breakthrough on national security and strategic innovation initiatives. Like Digg Del Tumblr VKontakte Buffer Love This Odnoklassniki Meneame Blogger Amazon Yahoo Mail Gmail AOL Newsvine HackerNews Evernote MySpace Mail.ru Viadeo Line Comments Yummly SMS Viber Telegram Subscribe Skype Facebook Messenger Kakao LiveJournal Yammer Edgar Fintel Mix Instapaper Copy Link The Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore), has introduced a pioneering Bachelor of Applied Computing in Finance (BACF) degree programme in response to the escalating demand for professionals equipped with financial domain knowledge and advanced technological skills. Aimed at meeting the evolving needs of financial institutions and fintech firms, the programme is a strategic move to support the Singapore government’s vision of a tech-enabled financial sector. Jointly offered by the Nanyang Business School (NBS) and the School of Computer Science and Engineering (SCSE), the BACF programme is set to reshape the educational landscape by seamlessly integrating finance domain expertise with applied analytical and technological skills. The collaboration between the two schools will foster the development of innovative courses like Blockchain in Finance, Machine Learning in Finance, and Product Management, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the dynamic intersection of finance and technology. A distinctive feature of the programme is the year-long industry-based applied research project, co-designed and co-supervised by faculty members from both schools. Students will tackle real-world challenges posed by industry partners, developing financial applications that contribute to the ongoing digitalisation journey of the financial industry. Scheduled to commence in the 2024 academic year, the BACF programme is designed as a four-year full-time initiative. Professor Ling San, NTU’s Deputy President and Provost, emphasised the programme’s interdisciplinary education approach, leveraging the strengths of two world-class schools to cultivate talents and leaders crucial for navigating the digitalisation era of the financial industry. To enrich the learning experience, all BACF students will undergo a mandatory 20-week professional internship in relevant job roles. Besides, students can opt for broadening and deepening electives, extending their internship during the summer holidays to a total of 30 weeks. This emphasis on experiential learning aligns with Singapore’s broader push towards interdisciplinary education. Sopnendu Mohanty, Chief FinTech Officer at MAS, applauds the programme for incorporating practical experience through internships, asserting that the curriculum is well-positioned to meet the needs of the FinTech ecosystem. In an industry shaped by ever-evolving technologies, talent development remains a pivotal force for pursuing growth and resiliency. The BACF programme aligns with NTU’s 2025 strategic plan, emphasising the institution’s commitment to nurturing future-ready graduates and supporting the government’s vision of a tech-enabled financial sector. With its focus on integrated courses and industry relevance, the programme prepares students for diverse career options, including roles as data analysts, digital strategists, business analysts, and product managers in various financial settings. The programme’s specialisations cater to specific industry demands, offering students the opportunity to delve deeper into Financial Analytics and WealthTech, Crypto Asset and Blockchain, or Digital Banking and Security. It aligns academic training with the specific needs and trends of the industry, ensuring that graduates possess specialised skills and knowledge that are directly applicable and sought after in the rapidly evolving landscape of finance and technology. This not only benefits the students in terms of career prospects but also addresses the industry’s demand for professionals with specialised expertise in these critical areas, fostering innovation and progress within the financial sector. The tailored approach ensures that graduates possess a robust foundation in their chosen specialisation while gaining a comprehensive education in finance and technology. Candidates can apply through multiple routes, including GCE “A” levels, International Baccalaureate, or polytechnic paths. The BACF programme represents a forward-looking initiative, blending academic rigour with practical experience to produce a new generation of professionals adept at navigating the intricate intersection of finance and technology. Like Digg Del Tumblr VKontakte Buffer Love This Odnoklassniki Meneame Blogger Amazon Yahoo Mail Gmail AOL Newsvine HackerNews Evernote MySpace Mail.ru Viadeo Line Comments Yummly SMS Viber Telegram Subscribe Skype Facebook Messenger Kakao LiveJournal Yammer Edgar Fintel Mix Instapaper Copy Link The Ministry of Education and the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT-Kanpur) have launched SATHEE (Self-Assessment Test and Help for Entrance Exams), an online education platform to empower millions of students nationwide who are preparing for competitive exams. It provides a comprehensive suite of resources tailored for NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) and JEE (Joint Entrance Examination) aspirants. This initiative represents a notable achievement in the implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 and the pursuit of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 4. The platform stands out with its multilingual support, offering content in English, Hindi, and a range of Indian regional languages, ensuring that no student is hindered by language barriers, and fostering an inclusive environment. The SATHEE resources include video lectures delivered by renowned faculty members from IITs and the Indian Institutes of Science (IISc). The platform is also kicking off its first 45-day JEE crash course, designed to offer intensive preparation and revision within a brief period. It is ideal for students looking for quick revisions before exams. The platform features a series of rigorous, expert-designed learning modules, complemented by innovative elements such as an interactive chatbot. To further enrich the learning experience, there will be regular doubt-clearing sessions facilitated by students from IITs and the All-India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS). Anticipating an enthusiastic reception, the SATHEE platform is poised to attract a substantial response from students nationwide. “The outreach of SATHEE marks a significant step towards enhancing accessibility to education in India. This platform opens up new avenues for students preparing for competitive exams, offering quality resources and support. Our goal is to ensure that every student, irrespective of their location or financial situation, has the opportunity to excel in their academic pursuits. SATHEE is a testament to our commitment to educational equity and excellence,” stated S Ganesh, Officiating Director, IIT-Kanpur. SATHEE goes beyond being a mere learning platform; it signifies a shift toward providing equal educational opportunities for all. It addresses the issue of competitive exam preparation being monopolised by private classes, which may be unaffordable or difficult to access for many due to distance. The platform serves as a positive prospect for millions of students, especially those in rural areas and financially restricted environments. During the pandemic, e-learning websites and portals played a vital role in the education sector, and the government aims to leverage the digital advantages in the new normal. Last year, the IIT-Madras’ National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL) introduced an online portal to help students prepare for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE). As OpenGov Asia reported, the NPTEL GATE portal is freely accessible to all students, with CSR support from one of the country’s leading travel technology organisations. NPTEL is a joint initiative of the IITs and IISc, a provider of free online certification courses. It has the world’s largest online repository of courses in basic sciences, engineering, and selected humanities and social sciences subjects. Through the portal, NPTEL has leveraged its existing course contents on engineering and science domains from over 2,400 course portfolios, to provide video solutions, practice tests, and online assistance based on the GATE syllabus. Nearly one million students took the GATE exams this year and the portal made the preparation journey easier for the aspirants. Top of Form Like Digg Del Tumblr VKontakte Buffer Love This Odnoklassniki Meneame Blogger Amazon Yahoo Mail Gmail AOL Newsvine HackerNews Evernote MySpace Mail.ru Viadeo Line Comments Yummly SMS Viber Telegram Subscribe Skype Facebook Messenger Kakao LiveJournal Yammer Edgar Fintel Mix Instapaper Copy Link In an era marked by escalating cyber threats, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is spearheading a pioneering initiative to fortify the resilience of the nation’s critical infrastructure. Over the past few years, the frequency and impact of cyberattacks have surged, disrupting vital operations across various sectors. Notable incidents, such as the Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack, have underscored the vulnerability of critical infrastructure, prompting a proactive response from CISA. Recognising the evolving threat landscape, CISA is thrilled to unveil a groundbreaking pilot programme tailored to provide cybersecurity shared services on a voluntary basis to entities within critical infrastructure sectors. The initiative comes in the wake of escalating cyber-physical attacks that have demonstrated the potential to disrupt essential functions and, in extreme cases, threaten human life. Having served as a managed service provider for the federal civilian government, CISA is leveraging its experience and expertise to extend support to non-federal organisations grappling with cybersecurity risks. Empowered by a new congressional authority, CISA aims to deliver enterprise cybersecurity solutions that enhance the resilience of critical infrastructure and contribute to risk reduction, cost savings, and standardisation. A vital component of this programme is deploying CISA’s Protective Domain Name System (DNS) Resolver to pilot participants. Formerly exclusive to federal civilian agencies, this proven and cost-effective solution utilises U.S. government and commercial threat intelligence to preemptively block systems from connecting to known or suspected domains. The success of CISA’s Protective DNS service is evident in its prevention of nearly 700 million connection attempts from federal agencies to malicious domains since 2022, effectively mitigating risks associated with common cyber threats like ransomware, phishing, and malicious redirects. By expanding the accessibility of its highly scalable Protective DNS service, CISA is extending critical cybersecurity protections to “Target Rich, Resource Poor” entities within the critical infrastructure landscape. This strategic move aims to provide essential safeguards that have proven instrumental in reducing enterprise risk across federal government agencies. The ongoing pilot programme involves the identification of critical infrastructure entities interested in adopting CISA-provided commercial shared services. This phase serves to stress-test service delivery mechanisms, demonstrate the scalability of cybersecurity services, and establish CISA’s ability to efficiently acquire, deploy, and operate these services on a large scale. As part of its ‘Target Rich, Resource Poor’ strategy, CISA is collaborating with entities in healthcare, water, and K-12 education sectors during the initial phase, with plans to extend services to up to 100 entities by the end of the year. In addition to technical deployment, CISA is fostering engagement through roundtables and information sessions with critical infrastructure partners across all sectors and regions. This proactive approach aims to comprehensively understand their unique needs, challenges, and existing capabilities, allowing CISA to tailor its shared services effectively. The insights garnered from these discussions, combined with the results of the Protective DNS pilot, will guide efforts to enhance support for the nation’s critical infrastructure organisations. As the designated Cyber Defence Agency for the United States, CISA believes that delivering cost-effective, scalable, and innovative cybersecurity solutions to critical infrastructure entities is crucial to fulfilling its national cyber mission. The dynamic nature of the cyber threat environment underscores the urgency of collective cyber defence, and CISA stands ready to meet the evolving challenges, supporting entities in safeguarding the digital backbone of the nation.