Cybersecurity company Clyrofor and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to advance innovation, foster skills development and support the commercialisation of cybersecurity technologies.

This strategic partnership aims to enhance collaboration around the technological capabilities of both organisations and thereby play a pivotal role in strengthening cybersecurity in South Africa.

The partnership aims to strengthen expertise in cybersecurity, create new opportunities for innovation and contribute to economic growth by addressing socioeconomic challenges, such as unemployment, through a formal skills training programme.

“Our goal is to develop home-grown tools that enhance national security and protect businesses and citizens. We also hope to expand our footprint across Africa through this collaboration,” says CSIR Information and Cyber Security Centre manager Dr Jabu Mtsweni.

One of the key areas in which the organisations will collaborate is by forming an academy of excellence and facilitating the exchange of students, interns and staff for practical training in cybersecurity.

They will also collaborate on joint projects and initiatives, such as hackathons, to foster innovation.

Additionally, the partners will evaluate and commercialise cutting-edge, home-grown technologies through proof-of-concept projects, the organisations say.

The partnership aligns with the CSIR’s core mission of advancing scientific and industrial research to address socioeconomic challenges in South Africa. It reflects a shared commitment to advancing South Africa’s cybersecurity capabilities, fostering technological growth and building a resilient, independent future for the continent, says CSIR Defence and Security executive manager Sipho Mbhokota.

“This partnership with Clyrofor marks a significant step towards unlocking new opportunities for innovation. We are excited about the potential of this collaboration, not only in advancing cutting-edge technologies but also in enhancing skills development and strengthening South Africa's growing cybersecurity technological landscape,” he says.

“By combining Clyrofor’s expertise with the advanced research capabilities of the CSIR, this partnership aims to make a lasting impact on the cybersecurity and technology sectors,” says Clyrofor MD and CEO Loyiso Boyce.