10 Years of Empowering Tomorrow's Guardians: Cyber Security Challenge Belgium
Brussels, 23 March 2024 - The curtains have closed on yet another riveting chapter of the Cyber Security Challenge Belgium (CSCBE) 2024, leaving a trail of innovation, companionship and talent. The 10th edition of the challenge was hosted on 22 and 23 March, this year's CSCBE finals surpassed all expectations, showcasing the bright minds of young cybersecurity enthusiasts from across Belgium.
From the inception of the online qualifiers to the climax of the finals, the CSCBE players captivated the event stakeholders with their skills and ingenuity. Over 850 students representing 38 universities and colleges embarked on a journey of discovery and navigating intricate cyber puzzles, proving themselves as worthy future guardians of our digital world.
Team Hastur from UCLouvain emerged victorious. Their outstanding performance earned them not only accolades but also desired prizes including a trip to the prestigious DEF CON hacker conference in Las Vegas and an exclusive SANS training course. Additionally, the winning team is now in contention for a spot in the national delegation set to represent Belgium in Autumn at the European Cyber Security Challenge 2024 in Torino, Italy.
As the founder of the Cyber Security Challenge Belgium, witnessing its evolution in 10 years from its humble beginnings to now engaging over 850 students is truly remarkable. It's heartening to see students from various disciplines recognizing the excitement and potential within the cybersecurity landscape. We are proud to play a part in inspiring the next generation of cybersecurity professionals and fostering a community committed to make our digital world a safer place.
The exponential growth of participation in the Cyber Security Challenge Belgium in the last decade reflects a significant shift in awareness and interest among students towards the field of cybersecurity. It underscores the vital role of such initiatives in cultivating a skilled workforce to tackle the evolving cyber threats. This surge in enthusiasm not only highlights the importance of cybersecurity but also emphasizes the diverse career opportunities available in this dynamic domain.
By providing a platform for hands-on learning and networking opportunities with industry leaders, the CSCBE equips students with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the complex cybersecurity landscape. Moreover, it stands as a testament to the commitment of Belgium towards cultivating a robust cybersecurity ecosystem, one that thrives on innovation, collaboration, and excellence. As the digital space continues to evolve it remains paramount to invest in the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.
Figures for CSCBE 2024:
- 10th edition of the CSCBE
- 850 students participated in the qualifying round
- 13 universities and 20 graduate schools represented
- 145 participants in the final
- 21 sponsors
The winning team: Team Hastur from UCLouvain
