Cisco to train 1.5 million people in digital skills across the EU by 2030, including AI, cyber-security, and data science

Cisco, a global technology company specializing in networking, cyber-security, and digital infrastructure, has announced plans to equip 1.5 million individuals across the European Union with basic digital skills by 2030.

The initiative, launched at the European Commission’s Employment and Social Rights Forum in Brussels, aligns with the EU's Union of Skills framework. Cisco’s efforts aim to address the growing demand for digital literacy and workforce readiness in an AI-driven economy.

Chuck Robbins, Chair and CEO of Cisco, said:

"Cisco is committed to supporting the EU and our education partners in developing the talent essential for thriving in an AI-driven future. This new initiative strengthens our partnership to build a resilient and skilled workforce ready to meet Europe’s digital transformation and AI objectives."

The initiative will be delivered through the Cisco Networking Academy, a long-standing digital training program that has already reached over 3.2 million learners in the EU since its launch in 1998. Cisco will offer free courses covering fundamental digital skills, including digital awareness, cyber-security, data science, IoT, and AI.

These courses are designed to provide accessible training to individuals across the EU, supporting the European Commission’s 2030 Digital Decade targets for digital skills and education.

Training educators for AI and cyber-security skills

Cisco also plans to train 5,000 educators over the next five years. The goal is to strengthen vocational education and higher education by equipping teachers with knowledge in AI, cyber-security, networking, and digital transformation.

As part of this initiative, Cisco will introduce AI-focused courses at both basic and intermediate levels, covering AI’s role in cybersecurity, IT infrastructure, and emerging digital technologies. These training sessions will incorporate Cisco’s existing curriculum and newly developed content designed to reflect the evolving demands of the AI-driven job market.

To ensure broad accessibility, Cisco Networking Academy will offer its training content in multiple European languages and collaborate with education providers to integrate digital skills training into national curricula. The company’s Industrial Networking curriculum will also support workers in sectors such as manufacturing and automotive, focusing on energy efficiency, connected infrastructure, and digital operations.