Vijayapura-based BLDE Dr P.G. Halakatti College of Engineering and Technology signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Barracuda Networks, a U.S.-based Bengaluru company to set up a Center of Excellence in cybersecurity.

Officers of both institutions signed the MOU on Friday.

The MoU aims to promote industry-academic collaboration in cybersecurity through skill development, training, hackathons, internships and placements.

Professor Aaradhya spoke about the transformations brought about by the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and the importance of cybersecurity in the future.

Principal P. Manjunath spoke about the importance of industry-academic collaboration in shaping the careers of students, according to a release.

Sneha Jaiswal, director of Human Resources; Jyoti A., senior recruitment manager; S. Veerkumar, recruiter, and Rani Nadaf conducted an industry orientation programme for the students.

"The establishment of the Center of Excellence is a significant step towards strengthening industry-academic collaboration and preparing students to meet the growing demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals. The center will act as a regional hub for cybersecurity, through which all joint activities with Barracuda Networks will be organised. It provides facilities to students to undertake industry-backed projects and participate in internship training programmes. It also helps faculty and research scholars to update their skills and pursue research in cyber security,” said the release.

Rohit Aaradhya, managing director and vice-president, Barracuda Networks and his team of representatives, R.V. Kulkarni, chief administrative officer, BLDE Association; Principal Manjunath P., vice-principals Leena Ragha and P.V. Malaji and head of IT department S.M. Chadchan, Centre of Excellence in-charge Santosh Devar, heads of departments, P.B. Patil, M.U. Nagarala and Girish Kulkarni and others were present.

Published - July 21, 2026 07:04 pm IST