Risk Associates has reinforced its dedication to nurturing future cybersecurity leaders by supporting students from NED University of Engineering and Technology through the ISACA Certification Reimbursement Award Program. The initiative, developed as part of Risk Associates’ collaboration with the university, reflects a shared vision to equip emerging professionals with the globally recognized skills and certifications required to thrive in the cybersecurity, auditing, and governance domains.
This program originated from a proposal made by Dr. Aftab Rizvi, CEO of Risk Associates, during his visit to NED University for the signing of a memorandum of understanding earlier this year. His vision emphasized the importance of providing aspiring students with access to internationally respected certifications that validate their technical competence and industry readiness. The initiative serves as a practical step toward bridging the gap between academic knowledge and professional capability, preparing students for the growing demands of Pakistan’s cybersecurity landscape.
At the TechFest 2025 Grand Ceremony held on October 25, five outstanding students from the Department of Computer Science and Information Technology at NED University received reimbursement awards worth USD 450 each upon successfully completing their ISACA CISA and CISM certifications. These credentials, globally recognized for their rigor and relevance, certify expertise in information security auditing, risk management, and IT governance. By earning these certifications, the students have positioned themselves for advanced career opportunities while contributing to the development of Pakistan’s cybersecurity workforce.
The award ceremony was attended by senior officials and academic leaders, including Prof. Dr. M. Tufail, Vice Chancellor of NED University; PVC Noman Ahmed; and Prof. Dr. Saad Ahmed Qazi, Dean of the Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Representing Risk Associates were senior executives including Kashif H., Managing Director, and Navaid Naqvi, Executive Director, who holds several professional credentials including CISA, CISM, CDPSE, and CISSO. Their presence underscored the organization’s active involvement in promoting cybersecurity education through mentorship, certification, and skill-building initiatives.
Risk Associates’ partnership with NED University demonstrates a sustained effort to create pathways for students to gain real-world qualifications and hands-on expertise that align with international best practices. By empowering young professionals with globally recognized credentials, the company aims to strengthen Pakistan’s cybersecurity ecosystem and promote a culture of excellence, responsibility, and innovation within the technology sector. The initiative reflects Risk Associates’ ongoing mission to contribute to the growth of skilled cybersecurity talent and foster a more resilient digital future for Pakistan.
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