Ziyam Abdeen, Chairman of WinSYS Networks, has been honored with the prestigious ISACA Sri Lanka Chapter Award for his exceptional contributions to the ICT industry, particularly in digital education and cybersecurity.
ISACA, a leading global organization headquartered in the USA, focuses on digital trust and addresses crucial areas such as cybersecurity, information security, governance, risk, compliance, and privacy. Over the past 20 years, Ziyam Abdeen has empowered nearly 23,000 students with the skills necessary to counteract the rising global cyber threats. This accolade not only acknowledges his remarkable achievements but also emphasizes the vital importance of cybersecurity in today’s digital landscape.
As one of Sri Lanka’s four National Trainers to ITC (UN), Ziyam’s influence extends beyond traditional teaching. He has provided free career guidance to over 40,000 students, aiding them in navigating the tech industry’s complexities. His visionary goals include establishing Sri Lanka as a global hub for cybersecurity training, ensuring that local students no longer need to pursue education abroad.
A major mission of Abdeen’s is to elevate cybersecurity awareness among all Sri Lankans. His vision is to cultivate a secure cyberspace society where every citizen is knowledgeable and vigilant against digital threats. By fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness, he aims to reduce vulnerabilities and safeguard the nation against potential cyberattacks.
In addition to enhancing national security, Ziyam’s initiatives are set to bring substantial economic benefits to Sri Lanka. By positioning the country as a center of excellence in cybersecurity, he seeks to attract more cybersecurity-related businesses, boosting investment and expertise that will enhance the country’s digital infrastructure and contribute significantly to the national GDP.
Ziyam Abdeen is also actively involved in key global and regional internet governance and cybersecurity forums. His participation in organizations such as the Internet Society, APNIC (Asia Pacific Network Information Centre), APSIG (Asia Pacific School of Internet Governance), IGF (Internet Governance Forum), and LKNOG (Lanka Network Operators Group) underscores his dedication to staying at the cutting edge of cybersecurity developments and advocating for stronger measures both in Sri Lanka and globally.
Moreover, Abdeen plays an active role in Sri Lanka’s professional community. He is a committed member of FITIS (Federation of Information Technology Industry Sri Lanka) under the Communication Chapter and the Computer Society of Sri Lanka, further solidifying his role as a leader in the national tech industry.
In light of recent global developments, such as the surge in cyber interference reported during the 2024 US elections, which saw over 500 attempted breaches of election infrastructure, and the UK’s increased investment in cybersecurity, Ziyam Abdeen’s work is increasingly relevant. The UK, now the third-largest investor in cybersecurity after the USA and China, has seen a 13% rise in the sector’s annual revenue, reaching £11,859 million, as reported in the 2024 Cyber Security Sectoral Analysis.
Abdeen’s dedication to providing top-tier cybersecurity education in Sri Lanka not only addresses national needs but also aligns with the global demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals. His efforts are paving the way for Sri Lanka to play a significant role in the global cybersecurity arena, ensuring the country is well-prepared to meet the challenges of an increasingly digital world.
By building a robust cybersecurity ecosystem, Abdeen is enhancing national security while positioning Sri Lanka as a leader in the global digital economy. His dual focus on security and economic growth highlights the profound impact of dedicated leadership on national security and education, setting a benchmark for how education can address global challenges.