EL PASO (KVIA), Texas — UTEP will receive $1 million from Google’s Cybersecurity Clinics Fund in order to establish its own cyber clinic.
Officials stated Monday that “Cybersecurity Clinics at Higher Education Institutions provide free digital security services for under-resourced organisations, similar to the way law or medical schools provide free community clinics,” they said. The new UTEP Miners Cybersecurity Clinic gives UTEP students an opportunity to learn cybersecurity skills and AI in a hands-on, effective manner, while simultaneously protecting vulnerable organizations and critical infrastructure such as local small business, hospitals, schools, energy grids and energy grids from cyber attacks.
UTEP hopes that this clinic will make El Paso’s cybersecurity landscape stronger. This new funding also gives UTEP students a unique opportunity to receive hands-on cybersecurity instruction. Google officials have confirmed that UTEP also receives special scholarships and mentorship from Google employees.
Monika Akbar, Associate Professor of Computer Science at UTEP, said: “The generous support we received from Google will allow us to establish a cybersecurity clinic in El Paso. This clinic will be a valuable resource for connecting UTEP Students with critical infrastructures as well as enhancing local cybersecurity capability.” This funding will allow us to provide our students with the most up-to-date knowledge, tools and techniques. We can also ensure that our curriculum is cutting edge and reflects the cybersecurity needs of small businesses and critical infrastructures.