Barracuda launches cybersecurity centres in five Karnataka engineering colleges

California-based cybersecurity firm Barracuda Networks has established Cybersecurity Centres of Excellence at five engineering colleges across Karnataka, targeting students in tier-two and tier-three cities.

The centres will operate at Basaveshwar Engineering College in Bagalkot, BLDEA's Dr. P.G. Halakatti College of Engineering and Technology in Vijayapura, Siddaganga Institute of Technology in Tumkuru, Vidyavardhaka College of Engineering in Mysuru, and Alva's Institute of Engineering and Technology in Moodbidri.

Industry-Academia Bridge in Smaller Cities

Barracuda plans to use the centres to deliver industry-led technical sessions and workshops, hands-on cybersecurity labs, student mentoring and career guidance, and exposure to real-world security challenges. The firm will also offer internships, sponsorships and opportunities for students to collaborate with cybersecurity practitioners.

The centres are designed to connect industry with students in second- and third-tier cities and to serve as local hubs for cybersecurity awareness among faculty, institutions, businesses and communities, according to the company. "Building a resilient digital future requires collaboration between industry, academia, government, educators and students," said Rohit Aradhya, Vice President of Engineering and Managing Director, Barracuda Networks, India.

Addressing Skills Gap Amid Rising Threats

The initiative responds to India's rapid digital transformation, which has expanded cybersecurity risks for organisations of all sizes, including small and medium-sized businesses, educational institutions, hospitals, retailers and financial organisations, the firm said. Many of these entities face constraints in cybersecurity expertise, skilled resources and security maturity.

India continues to experience a shortage of cybersecurity professionals, with an estimated 39,000 positions unfilled in 2026, according to a recent report.

Source: The Hindu