Virtual University of Pakistan, through its Professional Development Center and Cisco Networking Academy, has opened enrollment for an eight-week Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence Learn-A-Thon designed to help learners develop practical technology skills. The initiative offers nine specialised, self-paced online courses covering cybersecurity, digital safety, modern artificial intelligence and generative AI. According to the university’s announcement, enrolment is free for students, who can also earn digital badges and Cisco certificates after meeting the relevant course requirements. The programme provides an opportunity for learners to explore cybersecurity fundamentals and AI applications through structured online training without needing to attend conventional classroom sessions. Registration and course activities began on October 12, 2026, while the advertised completion deadline is December 7, 2026. The initiative is intended to make introductory technology learning more accessible and help participants build skills relevant to education and professional development.
The course catalogue covers a range of topics, beginning with Introduction to Cybersecurity and Digital Safety and Security Awareness. These courses introduce learners to cybersecurity concepts, online threats, personal data protection and safer digital practices. The remaining courses focus on artificial intelligence and its practical uses, including Introduction to Modern AI, Prompt Like an Engineer, Build Your Resume with AI, Find Insights with AI, AI Power User Launchpad, Core Generative AI Skills and Optimizing Generative AI. Together, the courses cover introductory AI concepts, prompt development, AI-assisted professional tasks and ways to use generative AI tools. Prompt engineering, for example, focuses on designing and refining instructions to obtain more useful outputs from AI systems. Other courses introduce applications such as using AI to support résumé preparation, analyse information and explore productivity workflows. The programme’s breadth allows participants to select learning areas aligned with their interests, although the university’s announcement does not state that completing the courses qualifies learners for professional cybersecurity or AI roles.
The training is delivered through Cisco Networking Academy, the technology education platform used by the university for online learning and professional development. The courses are self-paced, allowing participants to work through the material online during the enrollment period. The university says eligible learners can earn digital badges and Cisco certificates, providing a way to document completed training. These credentials may be useful for learners building a portfolio of technology-related skills, particularly when applying for internships, entry-level opportunities or further training. The programme also reflects the increasing role of online learning platforms in delivering introductory IT education to a wider audience. However, the available announcement does not specify the number of available seats, whether all courses have identical completion requirements or whether every course provides the same type of certificate. Learners should review the individual course details and assessment requirements through the official registration page before enrolling.
The Learn-A-Thon is part of Virtual University’s wider use of partnerships to expand access to technology education. Its Professional Development Center offers training and professional learning opportunities, while the Cisco Networking Academy partnership focuses on ICT skills and access to Cisco learning resources. For this particular programme, students can enrol without a course fee and pursue the listed courses within the announced timeframe. Registration began on October 12, and December 7, 2026, is the stated deadline for course completion. Interested learners can access the university’s official event page here to review the course list and registration information. By combining cybersecurity fundamentals with AI-focused learning, the programme provides an accessible route for participants to explore two important areas of digital technology and develop skills through online coursework.
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