CCNA On-Demand Programme: Professional Networking Certification Initiative for Electronic & Telecommunication Engineering undergraduates by IEEE Communications Society Student Branch Chapter of KDU

Description

The IEEE Communications Society (ComSoc) Student Branch Chapter of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) successfully launched the CCNA On-Demand Programme to provide students with an affordable opportunity to pursue the globally recognized Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification. Through coordination with the Cisco Networking Center of the University of Moratuwa, the chapter secured a special bulk-registration discount for participants. As a result, 48 students and 2 instructors successfully registered for the programme. To support participants at the start of their certification journey, an awareness session was conducted via Zoom on 25th May 2026 at 7.30 p.m. The session was delivered by Mr. Nadeesha Ranaweera, a veteran Cisco Certified Instructor Trainer for CCNA Routing & Switching (CCNA RS), CCNA CyberOps, and IT Essentials (ITE) programmes, and an experienced Systems Engineer managing Data Center Operations at the University of Moratuwa. The session provided participants with valuable insights into the CCNA certification pathway, programme structure, examination process, and preparation strategies, while clarifying concerns related to programme requirements and learning resources. Drawing from his extensive industry and training experience, Mr. Ranaweera also shared practical knowledge on networking technologies, career opportunities in the ICT sector, and the importance of professional certifications in building a successful career in networking and communications. Following the awareness session and registration process, all enrolled participants were successfully onboarded to the programme and granted access to the Cisco Networking Academy learning platform. The participants are currently actively engaged in the CCNA On-Demand Programme, progressing through the course modules and practical learning activities as they work towards achieving the globally recognized CCNA certification. This initiative continues to support the professional development of Electronic and Telecommunication Engineering undergraduates by strengthening their networking knowledge and industry-relevant skills.