Cisco has teamed up with Egypt’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) and the National Telecommunication Institute (NTI) to introduce the country’s first CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert) Mobile Lab. This initiative enables candidates to take advanced exams locally, eliminating the need for international travel and addressing cost and accessibility challenges. This launch aligns with Egypt’s efforts to become a regional technology hub, focusing on enhancing digital infrastructure and developing its workforce.
Egypt’s ICT sector employs more than 170,000 professionals and plays a crucial role in the country’s economic strategy. Cisco has been a strong supporter of this growth through its Networking Academy, which has trained over 275,000 learners in Egypt. The CCIE Mobile Lab enhances this initiative by providing access to one of the industry’s most prestigious certifications, vital for careers in network architecture, cybersecurity, and telecommunications operations.
For professionals, easier local access to CCIE exams broadens opportunities for engineers to obtain globally recognised credentials. This accessibility empowers them to enhance their skills and advance their careers without the burden of international travel. For the ecosystem, this initiative strengthens Egypt’s talent pipeline, making the country more appealing to multinationals in search of skilled labour. By fostering a more qualified workforce, Egypt positions itself as a competitive player in the global market. For Cisco, this development solidifies the company’s role as a long-term partner in Egypt’s digital transformation, aligning with its broader regional strategy. This partnership underscores Cisco’s commitment to supporting the growth of the local tech ecosystem.
Africa is projected to require over 200 million digitally skilled workers by 2030, but without accessible pathways to advanced certifications, investments in infrastructure may outpace the availability of talent. Cisco’s mobile lab model provides a practical solution to bridge this gap, supporting Africa’s localisation and digital inclusion agendas. By facilitating access to essential training and certifications, this initiative helps ensure that the workforce can meet the demands of a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
The CCIE Mobile Lab demonstrates how global tech companies can localise opportunities, strengthen ecosystems, and support Africa’s efforts to build not only networks but also the skilled professionals who operate them. This initiative highlights the importance of investing in human capital alongside technological infrastructure, fostering a sustainable future for the continent.
