The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) of Qatar, in partnership with the RIPE Network Coordination Centre (RIPE NCC), has launched a six-week training program aimed at enhancing national technical expertise in Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) deployment and Internet routing security. The initiative is part of a broader effort to bolster the security and resilience of Qatar’s Internet infrastructure.
Approximately 45 members of the Qatar IPv6 Taskforce are participating in the program, which targets representatives from various stakeholders within the country’s Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector. The training is delivered through the RIPE NCC Remote Learning Experience, combining live online sessions with self-paced modules available via the RIPE NCC Academy. Participants also have the opportunity to take a professional certification exam and receive formal recognition upon passing.
Ali al-Suwaidi, Director of the Technical Affairs Department at CRA, underscored the strategic importance of the program. He highlighted the authority’s commitment to developing national technical capabilities to ensure that Qatar’s Internet infrastructure remains secure, reliable, and adaptable to future needs. He noted that the training aligns with Qatar’s Digital Agenda 2030 and the broader Qatar National Vision 2030. Al-Suwaidi emphasized that investing in specialized training equips professionals with the necessary skills to support ongoing advancements and the security of the country’s digital infrastructure.
Echoing this viewpoint, Dr. Chafic Chaya, Regional Manager for Public Policy and Government Affairs at RIPE NCC for the Middle East, pointed to the strong participation in the program as an indication of Qatar’s dedication to developing critical Internet infrastructure skills. He stressed that expertise in IPv6 deployment and routing security is fundamental to maintaining the stability, security, and growth of Internet services.
The RIPE NCC is an independent, non-profit organization responsible for coordinating and managing Internet number resources across Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. It also offers training and technical support aimed at building specialized knowledge and ensuring the robust operation of Internet infrastructure.
This collaborative training initiative reflects ongoing efforts by Qatar to enhance its national ICT capabilities, supporting the strategic objectives of fostering a secure and resilient digital landscape in line with national development goals.