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ĀYŌDÈ Institute and Air & Space Forces Association Launch “Set Your Vector” Cybersecurity Initiative for North Texas Students

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ĀYŌDÈ Institute LLC and the Air & Space Forces Association (AFA), Sam Johnson Chapter, unveiled additional details regarding the launch of “Set Your Vector,” a regional cybersecurity education initiative designed to expand access to computer science and cybersecurity opportunities for high school students across North Texas and beyond.

ALLEN, Texas, May 14, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — ĀYŌDÈ Institute LLC and the Air & Space Forces Association (AFA), Sam Johnson Chapter, unveiled additional details regarding the launch of “Set Your Vector,” a regional cybersecurity education initiative designed to expand access to computer science and cybersecurity opportunities for high school students across North Texas and beyond.

“Set Your Vector helps strengthen the future STEM and cyber workforce by connecting students with real-world challenges, mentorship, and hands-on experience while developing the technical talent our nation will increasingly depend upon.” — Lt. Gen. John Campbell, USAF (Ret.)

Developed through a formal Memorandum of Understanding between the two organizations, “Set Your Vector” will provide a structured, multi-phase program culminating in an August 8, 2026 in-person cybersecurity competition hosted at The University of Texas at Dallas. The initiative is designed to introduce students to cybersecurity career pathways while equipping them with practical technical skills, mentorship opportunities, and exposure to industry and government cybersecurity professionals.

Registration and team formation for the competition will officially begin on Friday, May 15, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. CDT. Students, educators, parents, mentors, and sponsors can find program details, registration information, and participation requirements at https://setyourvector.com.

The program includes:

Virtual and in-person cybersecurity instruction supporting up to 2,500 studentsPreparatory sessions for up to 1,000 participantsA ranked, in-person cybersecurity competition for up to 500 high school students ages 13 and above

ĀYŌDÈ Institute will lead curriculum development, instructional delivery, technical infrastructure, and event operations. The AFA Sam Johnson Chapter will provide program support and manage charitable contributions designated for the initiative. Both organizations will jointly coordinate outreach, sponsorship engagement, and program execution.

“Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing and most strategically important fields in the country, yet access to early exposure and high-quality learning opportunities still varies significantly depending on where a student attends school,” said James Dugan, Executive Director of ĀYŌDÈ Institute. “Set Your Vector is about widening that doorway and helping students recognize that a future in cybersecurity is achievable, meaningful, and within reach.”

The organizations are also assembling panels featuring leaders from both the public and private cybersecurity sectors to provide students with insight into career opportunities, national security challenges, and the future of digital defense. Corporate and community sponsors will help support student participation, educational resources, mentorship opportunities, and operational logistics for the event. The organizations also announced that Frank Zaborowski, Director of Competition Operations for the CyberPatriot Program, will participate as a keynote speaker for the initiative. Zaborowski brings extensive experience in national cybersecurity education and student cyber competitions, further reinforcing the program’s emphasis on workforce development and hands-on cybersecurity learning.

Lt. Gen. John Campbell, USAF (Ret.), President of the AFA Sam Johnson Chapter, emphasized the importance of preparing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. “Programs like Set Your Vector help strengthen the future STEM and cyber workforce by connecting students with real-world challenges, mentorship, and hands-on experience,” said Campbell. “This initiative reflects our commitment to investing in young people and helping develop the technical talent our nation will increasingly depend upon.”

The launch of “Set Your Vector” aligns with ĀYŌDÈ’s broader mission of advancing equitable access to high-quality digital education while maintaining strong operational and security standards, including its recently announced CSA STAR Level 1 Attestation for cloud security transparency and governance.

Organizations, industry professionals, and community leaders interested in sponsorship opportunities, mentorship participation, or panel involvement are encouraged to contact the program organizers at support@setyourvector.org or visit https://setyourvector.com for additional information.

About ĀYŌDÈ Institute

ĀYŌDÈ (The Organization for the Advancement of Youth through Opportunities in Digital Education) is a public benefit corporation dedicated to expanding youth access to high-quality digital education, including computer science, cybersecurity, and advanced technology training.

https://ayode.institute

About the Air & Space Forces Association, Sam Johnson Chapter

The Air & Space Forces Association, Sam Johnson Chapter, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supporting aerospace education, STEM development, and advocacy for the United States Air Force and United States Space Force throughout North Texas.

https://www.afa.org

Media Contact
James Dungan, Executive Director, ĀYŌDÈ Institute, 1 (877) 276-1707, support@ayode.institute, https://ayode.institute

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ST Engineering iDirect and MBSat Partner to Build Next-Generation Sovereign Connectivity Services Across Oman and the Middle East

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Intuition ground system selected to support MBSat’s planned 2027 service launch, enabling accelerated deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable service growth

HERNDON, Va., Oct. 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ST Engineering iDirect today announced a strategic partnership with Mohammed Al Barwani Satellite Company (MBSat), part of Mohammed Al Barwani Group, to provide the ground system technology foundation for MBSat’s next-generation satellite gateway and network operations across Oman and the wider Middle East region. Intuition will provide a flexible, software-defined foundation to support sovereign connectivity services, enabling efficient service deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable network operations.

Intuition will deliver a turnkey ground segment solution that accelerates deployment, simplifies operations and gives MBSat the flexibility to scale services as demand grows. The software-defined platform enables dynamic resource management, service automation and seamless integration with existing and future operational systems. The solution also includes Ka-band gateway infrastructure, service provisioning and management capabilities, open API integration frameworks, training and full-lifecycle support. Together, these capabilities will help MBSat launch and operate services efficiently while adapting to evolving market requirements.

The network will leverage capacity from MB Sat-1, a sovereign MicroGEO satellite, with planned service launch in 2027, to support flexible, scalable connectivity services across the region.

The partnership reflects growing investment in sovereign communications infrastructure across the Middle East as operators seek greater control over service delivery, network expansion and long-term technology evolution.

“This partnership represents an important milestone in our efforts to build an advanced satellite communications platform in Oman and the region,” said Ammar Al Rawahi, General Manager, MBSat. “Through our collaboration with ST Engineering iDirect, we are establishing the technical infrastructure required to launch services efficiently, respond to evolving customer needs and expand into new markets, supporting the sustainable long-term growth of our business.”

“We are providing MBSat with a flexible, software-defined ground platform that integrates with its existing operational environment,” said Sridhar Kuppanna, Chief Executive Officer, ST Engineering iDirect. “This enables more efficient service deployment and operations today, with the flexibility to scale, introduce new capabilities and evolve as requirements change.”

About ST Engineering iDirect

ST Engineering iDirect, a subsidiary of ST Engineering, is a global leader in satellite communications, providing technology and solutions that enable its customers to expand their business, differentiate their services and optimize their networks. Through its portfolio of ground infrastructure, intelligent networking and advanced satellite communications solutions, the company supports operators, service providers, governments and enterprises worldwide.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/st-engineering-idirect-and-mbsat-partner-to-build-next-generation-sovereign-connectivity-services-across-oman-and-the-middle-east-302918467.html

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ST Engineering iDirect and MBSat Partner to Build Next-Generation Sovereign Connectivity Services Across Oman and the Middle East

Published

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Intuition ground system selected to support MBSat’s planned 2027 service launch, enabling accelerated deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable service growth

HERNDON, Va., Oct. 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ST Engineering iDirect today announced a strategic partnership with Mohammed Al Barwani Satellite Company (MBSat), part of Mohammed Al Barwani Group, to provide the ground system technology foundation for MBSat’s next-generation satellite gateway and network operations across Oman and the wider Middle East region. Intuition will provide a flexible, software-defined foundation to support sovereign connectivity services, enabling efficient service deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable network operations.

Intuition will deliver a turnkey ground segment solution that accelerates deployment, simplifies operations and gives MBSat the flexibility to scale services as demand grows. The software-defined platform enables dynamic resource management, service automation and seamless integration with existing and future operational systems. The solution also includes Ka-band gateway infrastructure, service provisioning and management capabilities, open API integration frameworks, training and full-lifecycle support. Together, these capabilities will help MBSat launch and operate services efficiently while adapting to evolving market requirements.

The network will leverage capacity from MB Sat-1, a sovereign MicroGEO satellite, with planned service launch in 2027, to support flexible, scalable connectivity services across the region.

The partnership reflects growing investment in sovereign communications infrastructure across the Middle East as operators seek greater control over service delivery, network expansion and long-term technology evolution.

“This partnership represents an important milestone in our efforts to build an advanced satellite communications platform in Oman and the region,” said Ammar Al Rawahi, General Manager, MBSat. “Through our collaboration with ST Engineering iDirect, we are establishing the technical infrastructure required to launch services efficiently, respond to evolving customer needs and expand into new markets, supporting the sustainable long-term growth of our business.”

“We are providing MBSat with a flexible, software-defined ground platform that integrates with its existing operational environment,” said Sridhar Kuppanna, Chief Executive Officer, ST Engineering iDirect. “This enables more efficient service deployment and operations today, with the flexibility to scale, introduce new capabilities and evolve as requirements change.”

About ST Engineering iDirect

ST Engineering iDirect, a subsidiary of ST Engineering, is a global leader in satellite communications, providing technology and solutions that enable its customers to expand their business, differentiate their services and optimize their networks. Through its portfolio of ground infrastructure, intelligent networking and advanced satellite communications solutions, the company supports operators, service providers, governments and enterprises worldwide.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/st-engineering-idirect-and-mbsat-partner-to-build-next-generation-sovereign-connectivity-services-across-oman-and-the-middle-east-302918467.html

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Global Security & Technology Summit Unveils Month-Long Program of Activities Ahead of December Event

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RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Organizing Committee of the Global Security & Technology Summit (GSTS) held an introductory session today at the Ministry of Interior’s headquarters in Riyadh, bringing together representatives from the government, private, and nonprofit sectors to introduce the program of activities leading up to the summit. The upcoming summit will be held in Riyadh under the patronage of HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, under the supervision of HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Minister of Interior, and organized by the Ministry of Interior in cooperation with Tuwaiq Academy.

During the session, the Organizing Committee presented the comprehensive GSTS program, comprising three key components: GSTS Month, running from November 1 to 30, 2026; the Global Security & Innovation Fair (SAIF), taking place from November 24 to 26, 2026; and the main Summit, scheduled for December 18 to 20, 2026, in Riyadh. Together, these events form an integrated program designed to advance security and technology innovation, strengthen national capabilities, and foster international cooperation.

GSTS Month will feature working groups, boot camps, training programs, knowledge-sharing sessions, and technical workshops across Saudi Arabia’s 13 administrative regions, delivered both in person and remotely in collaboration with specialized entities. The month-long program aims to develop national capabilities, identify emerging talent, enrich knowledge-sharing opportunities, and equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to develop innovative solutions to future security and technology challenges.

The main Summit will bring together global leaders, decision-makers, experts, and innovators to explore the future of security and technology, promote the integration of advanced technologies within the security sector, strengthen national capabilities, support innovation, and foster international cooperation, further positioning the Kingdom as a global hub for security and technology.

Showcasing the latest technological breakthroughs and security solutions, the summit will bring together government entities, private sector organizations, academic institutions, and research centers to facilitate knowledge exchange and collaboration across key fields, including cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), smart security solutions, emerging technologies, and crisis management. The program will also feature main sessions, specialized discussions, and interactive exhibitions. Registration is available at gsts.sa.

Advisor to HRH the Minister of Interior and Chairman of the GSTS Organizing Committee, Ahmed Altowayan, stated that the summit builds on Saudi Arabia’s efforts to establish an advanced security and technology ecosystem focused on knowledge and innovation, keeping pace with rapid developments and future challenges.

Mr. Altowayan noted that the summit is a global platform for strengthening cooperation and exchanging expertise, anticipating future developments in security and technology, and developing strategic partnerships and innovative solutions that enhance the efficiency and readiness of security systems.

Vice Chairman of the GSTS Organizing Committee, Eng. Abdulaziz Alhammadi, said that the summit will offer a range of integrated programs and activities focused on enhancing national skills, encouraging innovation, and supporting international cooperation.

He added that GSTS Month will help build national capabilities, discover talent, and develop skills, with SAIF providing a platform for innovators and researchers from around the world to showcase leading technological solutions, while the main Summit will bring together leaders and experts to discuss the future of security and technology and explore new strategic partnership opportunities.

SAIF will take place at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center, bringing together innovators, researchers, technology talents, and industry experts from around the world to showcase promising innovations and projects across 14 fields of technology and innovation. The fair will provide opportunities to engage with project owners, including students, graduates, and entrepreneurs, and explore the different stages of innovation development through interactive zones, panel discussions on emerging security and innovation trends, and knowledge-sharing workshops led by specialists. Visitor registration is open to participants from within and outside the Kingdom through saifair.sa.

The introductory session also featured contributions from representatives of government, private, and nonprofit sector entities, alongside members of the media. Discussions focused on developing national capabilities in security and technology, strengthening students’ technical expertise, translating scientific research into practical solutions, and supporting Saudi companies in developing security and technology solutions and advancing digital transformation.

Organized by the Ministry of Interior in cooperation with Tuwaiq Academy, GSTS is produced by Tahaluf, with the Ministry of Education serving as Strategic Scientific Partner, Tahakom as Founding Partner, and Elm as Principal Partner.

Registration for participants from within and outside the Kingdom is available at gsts.sa.

Click here to view the media kit. 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/global-security–technology-summit-unveils-month-long-program-of-activities-ahead-of-december-event-302918695.html

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