On April 29, 2026, in Osijek, the Croatian Academic and Research Network – CARNET and the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Computer Science and Information Technology Osijek – FERIT signed a Cooperation Agreement aimed at strengthening joint activities in the fields of cybersecurity, digital resilience, information systems protection, and the development of research and educational capacities.

The signing of the Agreement took place as part of activities implemented by CARNET within the e-University project, a strategic initiative focused on the digital transformation of higher education.

“Last December, FERIT established the Cybersecurity Center with the goal of conducting scientific and professional research, developing educational programs, and carrying out activities aimed at raising awareness about the importance of cybersecurity. By signing this Agreement, we seek to further strengthen the operational, research, and educational capacities of both institutions, contribute to enhancing the cyber resilience of the academic community, and establish a foundation for new joint projects, programs, and professional activities,” emphasized Prof. Tomislav Matić, PhD, Dean of FERIT.

“Digital transformation in higher education cannot be complete without strong cybersecurity. That is why, through the e-University project, alongside investments in infrastructure and digital services, we are systematically strengthening the security capacities and competencies of the academic community. The Agreement with FERIT further connects knowledge, research, and operational expertise, creating a strong foundation for long-term cooperation in the field of cybersecurity,” stated Hrvoje Puljiz, Director of CARNET.

A working meeting and accompanying event intended for Senate members, vice-deans, and other representatives of the academic community were also held at Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek. CARNET experts presented the status of network infrastructure implementation, the timeline for equipment delivery to the University of Osijek, as well as the Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) tool for managing processes, risks, and compliance.

In addition, cybersecurity training sessions were organized for University employees, with the aim of strengthening practical knowledge and competencies while fostering a shared understanding of security obligations, risks, and responsibilities in the digital environment. The goal of these training sessions is to ensure timely risk recognition, more effective incident response, and more consistent implementation of security measures, thereby improving the security culture and resilience of information systems within the academic community.