Ignite National Technology Fund has launched the fifth Digital Pakistan Cybersecurity Hackathon. The initiative aims to discover and develop Pakistan’s emerging cybersecurity talent.
The organisers describe it as Pakistan’s biggest cybersecurity hackathon. It offers a support package worth more than Rs. 51.5 million for participants.
Students, cybersecurity professionals, ethical hackers, security researchers and technology enthusiasts can participate. They will tackle practical cybersecurity challenges while competing with skilled professionals from across Pakistan.
Hackathon Offers Rs. 51.5 Million Support
The programme includes Rs. 12.5 million in cash awards for successful participants. Additionally, cybersecurity training coupons worth Rs. 12 million will help participants develop advanced technical skills.
Another Rs. 27 million will support participation in international cybersecurity competitions. Consequently, the initiative could help Pakistani cybersecurity professionals gain valuable exposure beyond the country.
The programme also focuses on practical learning rather than competition alone. Ignite plans to conduct cybersecurity training workshops across 16 cities in Pakistan.
Red Team and Blue Team Competitions
Following the training workshops, participants will compete in Red Teaming and Blue Teaming challenges. These competitions will take place in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Multan, Quetta and Peshawar.
The activities will provide hands-on experience in identifying and responding to cyber threats. Participants will also learn how to defend systems against potential attacks.
Red Team exercises typically focus on testing security through offensive techniques. Meanwhile, Blue Team activities focus on detection, defence and incident response.
Therefore, the hackathon will expose participants to different aspects of real-world cybersecurity operations.
Building Pakistan’s Cybersecurity Workforce
Ignite operates under the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication. The organisation said the initiative aims to identify cybersecurity talent and strengthen practical skills.
Moreover, the programme promotes ethical hacking, security research and technological innovation. These areas can help Pakistan better protect its expanding digital infrastructure.
Registration for the fifth Digital Pakistan Cybersecurity Hackathon is now open through the official portal.
The initiative could provide young talent with valuable opportunities to develop technical expertise. At the same time, it aims to strengthen Pakistan’s cybersecurity workforce and prepare professionals for international competitions.
