SCO Software Technology Park Mirpur secures top global position in Cisco EMEA NetAcad Cup 2026

Special Communications Organization (SCO) Software Technology Park Mirpur has secured first position globally in the Cisco EMEA NetAcad Cup 2026 (Phase-I Learn-A-Thon), marking a major achievement for Azad Jammu and Kashmir in the field of digital technology and professional IT training

MIRPUR, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 18th May, 2026) Special Communications Organization (SCO) Software Technology Park Mirpur has secured first position globally in the Cisco EMEA NetAcad Cup 2026 (Phase-I Learn-A-Thon), marking a major achievement for Azad Jammu and Kashmir in the field of digital technology and professional IT training.

According to official sources, the competition featured participation from 501 Cisco Networking academies representing more than 70 countries across the Europe, middle East and Africa (EMEA) region. The Learn-A-Thon contests continued from January 12 to March 8, 2026, while successful participants were announced on March 23. The event focused on advanced courses in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, internet of Things (IoT), and networking technologies.

Officials said the SCO Software Technology Park in Mirpur had trained 635 students in seven groups since its registration with Cisco Networking academy in August 2024, introducing them to internationally recognized certifications and emerging digital skills.

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Director General SCO Major General Umar Ahmed Shah appreciated the achievement and distributed commemorative shields and cash prizes among high-performing institutions during a ceremony held at SCO Mirpur. The event was attended by Colonel Yousuf Javed, Commander SCO Azad Kashmir, Lieutenant Colonel Adeel Malik, Commanding Officer SCO Mirpur Division, and Fahim Anwar, Country Head Cisco Pakistan.

Addressing the ceremony, Major General Umar Ahmed Shah said the achievement reflected SCO’s commitment to empowering youth through digital transformation and academic-industrial partnerships. He said the success demonstrated the immense potential of the youth of Azad Kashmir to compete globally when provided with modern platforms and opportunities. He added that under the ITU Vision 2025, SCO had established Software Technology Parks and Freelancing Hubs equipped with modern technology to strengthen digital capacity building and create international opportunities for young people across the region.

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