Building Cyber Resilience through Ethical Hacking & Defence Training: Three-Day Hands-on Workshop by School of Technology

The School of Technology, in collaboration with the CSI student Chapter of The Apollo University, unfurled yet another feather of distinction in its cap with the inauguration of a Three-Day Hands-on Workshop on Ethical Hacking and Cyber Defense, held on the 28th of August 2025 at Lecture Hall–1. The morning carried a sense of anticipation and promise as eager students assembled, ready to step into the enthralling and formidable world of cybersecurity.

The inaugural ceremony commenced at 10:00 AM and was graced by the dignified presence of the Chief Guest, Dr. H. Vinod Bhat, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of The Apollo University, whose vision and leadership have been the guiding light for the institution. Prof. D. Jagadeesan, Dean, School of Technology, and the resource person, Mr. Srujan Atluri, CEO of GIR Technologies and a leading cybersecurity trainer emphasized the need for technology students in enduring commitment to innovation and excellence to solve the real-world cyber problems.

The event started with a briefing on the three-day agenda—a stimulating blend of cybersecurity essentials, hands-on ethical hacking practices, and a national-level hackathon simulation, designed to not only sharpen skills but also inspire teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving under pressure. The aim, objectives and the focus of the three-day workshop was also explained in detail by the students. The chief guest and the resource person was also formally introduced by the students to the participants.

In his inaugural address, Dr. Bhat eloquently underlined the urgency and relevance of cybersecurity in today’s digital age. He reminded the gathering that it is high time we safeguard our systems and digital spaces against attacks and protect the nation’s balance by eliminating cybercrimes through technical competence. He highlighted how hackathons serve as a bridge between research and problem-solving, enabling bright ideas to transform into real-world solutions.

Drawing from history, Dr. Bhat cited the example of Joseph Priestley’s discovery of laughing gas in 1844, which was only used as an anesthetic drug 72 years later. With this, he emphasized that research and applications cannot remain distant realities; rather, research must swiftly find its problem statements and translate into timely, practical outcomes.

The Vice Chancellor further urged that the life of prototypes and ideas should not end with the hackathon. Students, he said, are provided ample opportunities at The Apollo University to grow as young entrepreneurs through the exclusive incubation centres being set up on campus. Faculty-driven student projects, nurtured in this ecosystem, can eventually be commercialized to solve real-world problems, turning innovation into impact.

Adding gravitas to the occasion, the resource person, Mr. Srujan Atluri, CEO of GIR Technologies and a leading cybersecurity trainer, shared his rich expertise, offering the participants practical insights into cyber defense mechanisms and real-time threat scenarios. His address blended inspiration with industry wisdom, urging students to see ethical hacking not merely as a skill but as a responsibility anchored in integrity and vigilance.

The event was coordinated by Dr. Hima Bindu G. B., Deputy Director, ICT & Associate Professor, Program Coordinator CSE, and Dr. Manju A. B., Deputy Controller of Examinations & Assistant Professor. Their guidance and efforts ensured the smooth execution and impactful delivery of the Hackathon. The inaugural session concluded amidst applause and pride, leaving participants motivated for the journey ahead. The air in Lecture Hall was charged with enthusiasm, as students looked forward to days that promised to challenge their intellect, strengthen collaboration, and open doors to internships and career opportunities.

In the end, the workshop stood as more than just an academic event—it became a call to action, reminding every participant that while technology builds the future, it is ethics and vision that safeguard it.