The cybersecurity educational program for school students, implemented with the support of Ucom and the Microsoft Innovation Center, concluded with the Mini CTF (Capture The Flag) competition, which involved 61 graduates forming 19 teams. They competed on the CTF platform in a Jeopardy format and solved tasks of varying difficulty that covered fundamental topics in cybersecurity. The competition tasks were developed based on real-life scenarios. Participants worked in teams to solve various cybersecurity problems, applying technical knowledge, logical thinking, and teamwork skills. This provided participants the opportunity to practically apply the knowledge and skills gained during the course.
“The digital development of Armenia depends not only on modern infrastructure but also on the people who can operate safely, responsibly, and confidently in a technological environment. Therefore, it is important for Ucom to contribute to the formation of cybersecurity knowledge and practical skills from a young age. With this initiative, we aim to develop the capabilities of young people, spark interest in technology professions, which will contribute to the formation of a future technological community,” said Ucom's CEO Ralph Yirikian.
All participants in the program received certificates of participation and incentive prizes. “The Mini CTF was a logical and important final phase of the program. It was essential for us that participants not only received theoretical knowledge but also had the opportunity to apply it in a real-world-like environment. Such experience develops not only technical skills but also analytical thinking, collaboration ability, and self-confidence,” noted Maria Barseghyan, director of the Microsoft Innovation Center.
The program, supported by Ucom, involved school students aged 14-17. During the course, participants became familiar with modern digital threats, learned the basic tools and principles for defending against them, and gained insight into professional opportunities in the field of cybersecurity. The Mini CTF competition became the final test for applying the knowledge and skills acquired. This initiative marked another step in the collaboration between Ucom and the Microsoft Innovation Center, contributing to the enhancement of digital literacy and the development of technological skills among youth in Armenia.
