Air University is set to host the Pak Crypt International Symposium on Cybersecurity and Pakistan Cybersecurity Challenge from November 24 to 27, 2026, at its Islamabad campus. Organized with the involvement of National Centre for Cyber Security (NCCS) and National Cyber Security Academy (NCSA), the four day event will bring together cybersecurity professionals, researchers, academics, industry leaders, and students to discuss emerging technologies and evolving security challenges. Held under the theme “Securing Today | Empowering Tomorrow,” the symposium aims to provide a platform for knowledge exchange, technical collaboration, and networking while highlighting developments that continue to shape the cybersecurity landscape in Pakistan and beyond.
The symposium has been structured around four critical themes, with each day dedicated to a specific area of cybersecurity. The opening day on November 24 will focus on IT Security with discussions centered on building resilient digital ecosystems. On November 25, the agenda will shift to AI and Cyber Operations, exploring how artificial intelligence can strengthen cyber defense capabilities and improve operational intelligence. November 26 will feature sessions on Cryptography and Quantum Security, examining technologies that are expected to play an increasingly important role in protecting digital communications and sensitive information. The final day on November 27 will concentrate on Operational Technology Security, highlighting approaches to safeguarding critical infrastructure against evolving cyber risks. Alongside keynote presentations and panel discussions, attendees will have access to technical sessions designed to encourage practical learning and industry engagement.
The event will also feature an international lineup of speakers representing universities and research institutions from several countries. Confirmed participants include Dr. Øyvind Anders Arntzen and Muhammad Mudassar Yamin from NTNU Norway, Prof. Dr. Nils Gregor Leander from Ruhr University Bochum Germany, Stewart James Kowalski from NTNU Gjøvik Norway, Prof. Erkay Savaş from Sabancı University Türkiye, Miss Sevil Şen from Hacettepe University Türkiye, Mr. Kai Hu from Shandong University China, Ms. Elif Bilge Kavun from Barkhausen Institute and TU Dresden Germany, Mr. Cihangir Tezcan from METU Ankara Türkiye, and Davide Bacco from University of Florence Italy. Through keynote talks, expert panel discussions, and technical presentations, these speakers are expected to share research findings, industry perspectives, and practical experiences covering multiple areas of cybersecurity. The symposium will also provide networking opportunities for participants to engage with experts, academic institutions, industry representatives, and potential collaborators.
An Industrial Expo will take place during the final two days of the event on November 26 and 27, showcasing cyber solutions, product demonstrations, workshops, and collaboration opportunities for organizations operating in the cybersecurity sector. Organizers state that the exhibition is intended to strengthen connections between academia and industry while encouraging discussions on innovation and practical cybersecurity applications. Registration has been opened for both students and professionals, with discounted rates available for single day and full event participation. The registration deadline has been announced as November 15, 2026. The symposium is being organized in collaboration with several national institutions, including PKCERT, NADRA, Higher Education Commission, National Cyber Security Academy, and other partners, reflecting a collaborative effort to support cybersecurity awareness, research, and professional engagement across Pakistan.
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