Wisconsin International University College, Ghana has announced the introduction and commencement in August, 2024, of courses in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics in furtherance of Ghana’s Digital Agenda.

Officials of the university say vulnerabilities to cybercrimes and society’s increasing reliance on digital devices and technologies mean Ghana cannot leave any stone unturned in its efforts to digitalise the economy and other aspects of life. Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics skills acquisition therefore, is a must.

Official announcements are due on Tuesday, July 9, however, an exclusive facility tour of Wisconsin University’s set-up and readiness to rollout the programme availed a select number of journalists on Friday revealed all is set for take-off, with labs for digital forensics, AI, and IT all in place.

Master’s Programmes
Founder and Chancellor of Wisconsin, Dr. Paul Kofi Fynn, said the bold move to fortify Ghana’s digital infrastructure and combat rising cybercrime, comes as a suite of advanced master’s programmes designed to prepare the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, with the initiative aligning with Ghana’s ongoing digitalisation efforts to transform both governmental and private sector processes.

Wisconsin University is introducing three master’s programmes: a Master’s degree in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics, and a Master’s degree in Information Technology. These programmes, according to the university, are designed to address the complexities and vulnerabilities that come with digital advancements.

The Master’s degree in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics aims to equip students with the skills necessary to combat cyber threats effectively, while the Master’s degree in Information Technology focuses on providing comprehensive training in IT infrastructure and management.

State-of-the-art Labs for hands-on training
To support these programmes, Wisconsin University has established four state-of-the-art labs:

1. Training Digital Forensics Lab: Equipped with 32 workstations, this lab provides hands-on training in various aspects of digital forensics, including drone forensics, IoT forensics, email forensics, and mobile phone forensics. This lab addresses a critical gap in Ghana’s educational landscape, where practical training in cybersecurity has been lacking.
2. Commercially Graded Digital Forensics Lab: Designed to meet commercial standards, this lab exposes students to the tools, technologies, and standard operating procedures they will encounter in professional settings. Managed by lab managers, it simulates a real-world environment to prepare students for their future careers.
3. AI Lab: Focused on the development of AI software and its integration into cybersecurity tools, this lab ensures students are proficient in using cutting-edge technology to combat cyber threats. AI-driven tools are increasingly crucial in modern cybersecurity, making this lab an integral part of the training program.
4. IT Lab: This lab incorporates cybersecurity tools to provide comprehensive training in managing and securing IT infrastructures, supporting the broader curriculum and equipping students with essential skills to address digitalization challenges.

Commitment to Excellence
Officials of Wisconsin University, and indeed allied institutions who participated in the facility tour, attested that the digital forensics labs are among the best in Ghana and the broader West African sub-region, showcasing the university’s commitment to providing world-class facilities and training.

The curriculum also includes a course on cyber law, educating students on the legal and ethical standards governing cyberspace in Ghana, with students required to register with the Cybersecurity Authority to acquire the appropriate licenses to ensure they are fully prepared for professional practice.