CICRA, Deakin University hold forum on ‘Zero Trust the pathway to digital trust’

Deakin University, Australia, in collaboration with CICRA Campus, recently held a breakfast forum to discuss ‘Zero Trust – hype or the panacea for digital trust?’

The event, part of Deakin Week Sri Lanka 2023, brought together luminaries and experts in the field of cybersecurity. 

The spotlight of the event was firmly fixed on Zero Trust, an innovative and transformative concept within the cybersecurity landscape. Attendees were treated to a comprehensive exploration of Zero Trust’s significance in the rapidly evolving world of digital security. Contrary to the conventional wisdom of relying on internal networks and distrusting external threats, Zero Trust advocates for a paradigm shift. It demands rigorous verification of all users and devices, regardless of their location, to bolster the overall cybersecurity defences of organisations.

The event drew participation from senior professionals spanning banks, IT security companies, and cybersecurity experts. These dedicated individuals congregated to dissect the intricacies of Zero Trust, forging connections, sharing knowledge, and jointly brainstorming innovative solutions in the realm of cybersecurity.

Deakin University Director of the Centre for Cyber Resilience and Trust (CREST) Prof. Robin Dass shared his expertise to unravel the theoretical foundations of Zero Trust. Prof. Doss’s presentation illuminated the potential benefits of this approach in safeguarding digital assets from the increasingly intricate and sophisticated cyber threats. His in-depth exploration of the core tenets of Zero Trust underscored its relevance in today’s interconnected digital landscape and the imperative to overhaul prevailing security architectures.

Hela Apparel Holdings PLC Chief Information and Process Officer Ruwantho Fernando shared her real-world insights and pragmatic perspectives on the practical implementation of Zero Trust strategies. Her presentation delved into the tangible challenges and triumphant moments experienced during the integration of Zero Trust principles into an organisational framework. Ms Fernando’s invaluable insights offered attendees a window into the transformative potential of Zero Trust for enterprises seeking to fortify their cybersecurity posture.

The forum was moderated by CICRA Holdings Group Director/CEO Boshan Dayaratne.

Dayaratne highlighted the pioneering initiative of CICRA Campus and Deakin University, which marked a significant milestone eight years ago with the launch of Sri Lanka’s inaugural Bachelor of Cyber Security degree. This remarkable achievement, he emphasised, underscores their unwavering dedication to cultivating the future cadre of cyber security professionals. In the ensuing years, CICRA Campus has assumed a pivotal role, fostering the growth of a remarkable cohort of over 2,000 cybersecurity experts. This accomplished group encompasses not only undergraduates and postgraduates but also individuals equipped with prestigious globally recognised professional certifications, underscoring the far-reaching impact of their educational endeavours. 

The event underscored the seamless collaboration between Deakin University and CICRA Holdings. This joint endeavour resonates with their shared mission to enhance awareness and understanding of cybersecurity through educational opportunities accessible to the Sri Lankan public. The event stood as a compelling segment of Deakin Week Sri Lanka 2023, a testament to the power of knowledge exchange and collaboration in the pursuit of a secure digital future.

Pix by Lasantha Kumara