Amazon Web Services has introduced the AWS UK Cyber Education Grant Program, designed to enhance the cybersecurity capabilities of educational institutions in the United Kingdom.
The $6.2 million program is available to all educational institutions, including state and private schools, higher education institutions, and multi-academy trusts. It aims to improve cyber capabilities, including advanced ransomware protection and essential cybersecurity skills.
Participating institutions will gain access to AWS Skill Builder, a resource containing over 600 courses, including more than 40 focused on security training. They will also receive complimentary security reviews and credits to implement cloud-based cybersecurity solutions.
John Davies, managing director for UK, Germany and International Organisations, Worldwide Public Sector, at AWS, said the grant will help the U.K. secure its educational infrastructure.
“We are delighted to launch the AWS UK Cyber Education Grant Program and help UK educational organizations to enhance their cybersecurity capabilities,” Davies said. “Strong security at the core of an organization enables customers to innovate and accelerate their digital transformation journeys.”
AWS launched a similar program in Canada in 2024 to assist provincial and municipal governments in enhancing their cybersecurity posture and reducing the risks associated with ransomware. This effort includes upskilling government IT staff through training and offering security reviews.
Martin Sivorn, the Department for Education’s chief information security officer, underscored the importance of protecting U.K. schools from online threats.
“Our work to help [nurseries, schools, colleges and universities] improve their cybersecurity never stops,” the official said. “That is why we welcome this program to boost the sector’s resilience to breaches, unlocking freedom to harness the potential of tech to drive high and rising education standards.”