CoRe5G: Exzellenzzentren der beruflichen Bildung für resiliente 5G-Netze

Secure, resilient and sustainable 5G networks are regarded as strategic infrastructure for Europe's digital transformation and increasingly form the basis for critical applications in industry, energy supply, transport and healthcare. With regulations such as the NIS2 Directive, the Cyber Resilience Act and the EU Toolbox for 5G Security, the European Union has created a harmonised framework for the security and resilience of these networks. However, its implementation is increasingly hampered by a shortage of professionals who can plan, operate and maintain 5G networks in a secure, resilient and energy-efficient manner. Existing education and training programmes rarely combine cybersecurity, climate resilience and sustainability and are not sufficiently linked to the operational practice of network operators and manufacturers.

The CoRe 5G project aims to establish a transnational network of Centres of Vocational Excellence (CoVEs) that brings together vocational education, higher education, research and industry in seven European regions. For this purpose, a modular, multi-level curriculum framework at EQF levels 3 to 5 will be developed that integrates competences in cybersecurity, infrastructure resilience and sustainability and is recognised through stackable micro-credentials. In addition, innovative learning formats such as digital twins, gamified cyber ranges and other simulation environments will be created, in which dealing with cyberattacks, infrastructure failures and extreme weather events can be practised in a realistic setting. The curricula will be adapted to regional needs and implemented together with companies with a high share of work-based learning. Cross-border mobility of learners and trainers as well as regional innovation ecosystems support the transfer of knowledge between education, research and industry. A sustainable operating and funding model is intended to secure the continuation of the centres beyond the project duration.

This project is co-funded by the European Union under the Erasmus+ programme (project number 101260846).