## A New Perspective on the BT and Cisco Partnership: Fostering Education and Inclusivity
BT and Cisco have forged a strategic partnership since 1990, aimed at providing network, communications, and IT solutions to businesses worldwide. In addition to their business collaborations, both companies are also committed to promoting STEM education. Cisco has been a staunch supporter of the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE), a prominent platform for school STEM exhibitions in Europe, which BT has been organizing and nurturing since 2001.
In January 2023, Cisco leadership attended the BT exhibition in Dublin, where the potential benefits of the Cisco Networking Academy (NetAcad) were discussed as a valuable resource for young contestants. Following various meetings related to the exhibition, BT invited Cisco Ireland to participate in a career event that aimed to help Ukrainian women secure employment in Ireland. This event covered topics ranging from Cybersecurity to exploring diverse career paths, presenting an ideal opportunity to introduce the Cisco Networking Academy program to the minority community in Ireland.
With the support of TU Dublin, a leading Cisco Networking Academy Partner in Ireland, BT Ireland established a Cisco Academy offering a range of free, online, self-paced courses in English and Ukrainian. These courses cover areas such as Cybersecurity, Networking, English for IT, Data Science, and Programming. A dedicated webpage was set up for students to learn more about each course and enlist. This initiative has already impacted over 200 learners since its inception in October 2023, with a particular focus on empowering Ukrainian women through valuable educational opportunities.
Participant Nataliia Cherkaska, a Project Manager, shared her experience, stating, “Recently, I completed the ‘English for IT’ course offered by Cisco. The material was presented excellently, divided into multiple stages, allowing me to revisit any necessary section. I particularly appreciated the well-structured video content and assignments. I am confident that the knowledge I gained from this course will be instrumental in advancing and enhancing my career.”
Shay Walsh, Managing Director of BT Ireland, emphasized the significance of their partnership with Cisco in creating a positive impact on communities. By integrating the Cisco Networking Academy into their initiatives, they are not only advancing STEM education but also providing crucial digital skill development opportunities for Ukrainian women. This collaboration underscores their commitment to fostering innovation and inclusivity in Ireland.
Niamh Madigan, Partner Leader at Cisco Ireland, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the positive impact this global initiative has had in Ireland. The collaborative efforts of Cisco and BT Ireland through the Cisco Networking Academy and Cisco’s Partnering for Purpose initiative demonstrate their joint commitment to making a difference in the community through CSR programs.
Shane Heraty, Managing Director of Cisco Ireland, expressed pride in reaching around 50,000 students through the Cisco Networking Academy in Ireland since its inception, offering a diverse curriculum spanning Networking, Cybersecurity, Programming, AI, and more. Partnerships like this play a crucial role in amplifying the impact on underserved and underrepresented communities.
### FAQ
**1. What courses are offered by the Cisco Networking Academy in Ireland?**
The Cisco Networking Academy in Ireland offers courses in Networking, Cybersecurity, Programming, AI, English for IT, Data Science, and more.
**2. How many learners have been impacted by the initiative in Ireland?**
Since its establishment in October 2023, the Cisco Academy in Ireland has reached over 200 learners, with a focus on empowering Ukrainian women through educational opportunities.
### Conclusion
The partnership between BT and Cisco goes beyond business collaborations, extending towards fostering education, inclusivity, and empowerment within communities. By leveraging the Cisco Networking Academy, both companies are making a tangible impact on underserved populations, particularly Ukrainian women in Ireland. This initiative exemplifies their joint commitment to advancing STEM education, digital skill development, and creating opportunities for individuals to enhance their careers and futures. Through partnerships like this, Cisco and BT are driving positive change and making a difference in society.
We encourage you to explore the free online courses offered by the [Cisco Networking Academy](https://www.netacad.com/?dtid=oblgzzz000659) and join us in supporting #CiscoPartners on social media platforms.
Remember, making a difference starts with education and inclusivity. Let’s continue to empower individuals and communities for a brighter future.