Amity University, Noida, is set to host the grand finale of NCIIPC-AICTE Pentathon 2024, marking the nation’s inaugural national Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) event. This 48-hour-long Pentathon, an initiative of the National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC) in collaboration with AICTE, will take place at Amity University, Noida, as stated in a press release issued by the institution.
The competition began with 8000 students participating in the initial round, from which only the top teams and individuals were shortlisted to proceed. During the intense 48-hour event, these selected participants hailing from various technical colleges and universities across India will immerse themselves in real-world cybersecurity challenges, mirroring the complexities involved in safeguarding critical information infrastructure entities.
The press release also mentioned that winners and standout participants will not only receive prizes but also be acknowledged for their real-world VAPT skills, provided they meet the stipulated criteria.
Navin Kumar Singh, the Director General of NCIIPC, emphasized the imperative of safeguarding Critical Information Infrastructure (CII) by harnessing the talents of India’s youth, aligning with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. He also outlined his long-term vision to nurture startups and Indian enterprises capable of exporting cybersecurity services globally.
Dr. Abhay Jere, Vice Chairman of AICTE, shared four pivotal insights with the participants. Firstly, he highlighted how the Pentathon enhances problem-solving skills, providing invaluable learning experiences beyond the confines of their academic curriculum. Secondly, he emphasized the importance of teamwork and time management in tackling challenges effectively. Additionally, he underscored the opportunity for participants to contribute to national development, as companies and government bodies seek their expertise for solutions. Lastly, he encouraged finalists and winners to leverage their participation in the Pentathon as a credential on their resumes, enhancing their career prospects.