Every October, Europe joins together for the European Cyber Security Month (ECSM) campaign to raise awareness about online safety and the growing need for strong cybersecurity
Now in its 13th year, ECSM 2025 highlights the importance of building digital resilience, with a strong focus on the human factor in cybersecurity and the need for skilled professionals.
An essential part of the ECSM is the Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL), which is a €7.5 billion initiative aimed at strengthening the EU’s strategic digital capacities.
Around €800 million of this funding is managed by the European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA). HaDEA is an integral part of supporting projects that boost Europe’s cybersecurity preparedness.
Cybersecurity skills gap
One of the most urgent issues in the cybersecurity landscape is the shortage of skilled professionals. To address this, HaDEA supports several innovative projects under the Digital Europe Programme that are actively working to close the skills gap.
At the centre of the ECSM is the European Cybersecurity Skills Academy. Supported by the AKADIMOS project, the Academy serves as a hub to connect and coordinate cybersecurity training across the EU.
It aims to fast-track existing upskilling and reskilling initiatives and provide easier access to funding opportunities. The Academy is expected to play a vital role in shaping Europe’s cyber talent pipeline.
Key projects supporting cybersecurity training
HaDEA is currently managing several standout projects that are contributing directly to the goals of the European Cybersecurity Skills Academy. These projects focus on diverse audiences, from SMEs and start-ups to public sector organisations.
- CyberPro Train delivers an innovative, replicable educational model across three EU countries. It offers a blend of theoretical, practical, and on-the-job training. A key deliverable is the CyberPro Train Digital Handbook, which will be made available in ten EU languages to share cybersecurity best practices and guidelines with professionals across sectors.
- CADMUS uses dynamic learning methods such as cyber ranges, games, hackathons, bootcamps, and traineeships to engage learners and boost practical cybersecurity skills. The project specifically targets the gaps in cybersecurity expertise by offering flexible, hands-on learning experiences.
- CYCERONE promotes collaboration between academia, industry, and the public sector to increase access to cybersecurity training. It is developing a centralised digital platform that will democratise access to high-quality courses and connect learners with educational opportunities across Europe.
- CYBERSEC4OT focuses on operational technology (OT) cybersecurity, particularly in the manufacturing sector. It provides training tailored to both technical and non-technical participants, supporting safer integration of Industry 4.0 technologies into production environments.
- CYRUS, a related initiative, is designing a new cybersecurity training programme aimed at the Manufacturing and Transport sectors. Its goal is to enhance awareness and empower staff to detect and respond to cyber threats more effectively. CYRUS showcased its progress during the recent ECSM kick-off event in Brussels.
Creating a secure digital future
These projects are the backbone of a strong approach by the EU to cybersecurity education. As digital threats evolve, the need for prepared professionals becomes even more critical. Through the Digital Europe Programme and HaDEA’s strategic project management, the EU is taking active steps to strengthen cybersecurity skills and build a safer digital environment for all.
