OPSWAT Academy, a leader in critical infrastructure cybersecurity training, has partnered with the University of San Francisco’s (USF) Data Institute to launch a new initiative under the OPSWAT Academy Scholarship Program. This collaboration aims to strengthen Computer Science education by providing students with direct access to practical cybersecurity learning experiences. Through the partnership, selected USF students will receive scholarships and hands-on access to OPSWAT Academy’s industry-validated training platform. The program focuses on equipping learners with cybersecurity skills needed to protect critical infrastructure systems, reflecting real-world challenges across both IT and operational technology (OT) environments.
At the USF Data Institute, we are deeply committed to preparing the next generation of data and technology professionals to address the most pressing challenges of our time. Cybersecurity is no longer a niche concern; it’s foundational to everything we do in data science, AI, and tech. Our partnership with OPSWAT Academy brings cutting-edge cybersecurity education directly into our students' hands, aligning seamlessly with our mission to equip students with both the technical skills and ethical grounding to lead in a rapidly evolving digital world.
Elisabeth Merkel
Senior Administrative Director at the Data Institute.
We’re excited to deepen our collaboration with the University of San Francisco’s Data Institute through this new scholarship initiative,” said Irfan Shakeel, VP of Training and Certification Services at OPSWAT. “Previously, we had the pleasure of hosting USF students for hands-on cybersecurity sessions and were genuinely impressed by their enthusiasm and the university’s strong commitment to advanced cybersecurity education. This partnership is a meaningful next step - one that reflects our shared goal of developing highly skilled cyber talent to protect the nation’s critical infrastructure in the years ahead.
Irfan Shakeel
VP of Training and Certification Services, OPSWAT.
The partnership reflects a joint commitment to innovation at the intersection of education and industry, creating new pathways for students to become cybersecurity leaders in an increasingly digital world.
About OPSWAT Academy
OPSWAT Academy is the educational division of OPSWAT, a global cybersecurity company focused on protecting critical infrastructure. The Academy offers role-based training and certification programs designed to prepare learners for real-world cybersecurity challenges. Through hands-on, scenario-driven content, OPSWAT Academy helps build a workforce capable of defending the world’s most essential systems.
The University of San Francisco’s Data Institute (DI) is a center of excellence in applied data science, data engineering, and artificial intelligence. The DI fosters interdisciplinary research, undergraduate and graduate education, and collaboration with industry, government, and nonprofit partners to develop data-driven solutions with real-world impact. Its mission is to drive innovation at the intersection of technology, ethics, and society, while preparing a diverse pipeline of data professionals equipped to lead responsibly in an AI-driven world. Located in the heart of San Francisco, the DI is uniquely positioned to connect students and researchers with the Bay Area’s vibrant tech and innovation ecosystem.
At the USF Data Institute, we are deeply committed to preparing the next generation of data and technology professionals to address the most pressing challenges of our time. Cybersecurity is no longer a niche concern; it’s foundational to everything we do in data science, AI, and tech. Our partnership with OPSWAT Academy brings cutting-edge cybersecurity education directly into our students' hands, aligning seamlessly with our mission to equip students with both the technical skills and ethical grounding to lead in a rapidly evolving digital world.
