APNIC Fellowship 2025: A Transformative Experience in Internet Collaboration and Security
According to a recent blog post by APNIC Fellow Sajidur Rahman Rabby, the 2025 APNIC Fellowship offered an unparalleled opportunity for early and mid-career professionals in the Asia-Pacific region to strengthen their technical knowledge, engage with global experts, and foster community collaboration in Internet operations. The fellowship culminated in the APNIC 60 conference, held in Da Nang, Vietnam, from September 4 to 11, 2025, offering a transformative experience for participants focused on critical areas like network security, DNS, automation, and post-quantum cryptography.
A Deep Dive into the 2025 APNIC Fellowship
The 2025 APNIC Fellowship combined months of structured virtual learning with an intensive four-day in-person workshop led by experts such as Shane Hermoso and Awal Haolader. Key tracks included Network Management & Security, where attendees engaged in practical sessions on proactive monitoring, fault management, network automation, and incident response. These hands-on workshops enabled participants to address real-world challenges faced daily by Internet Service Providers (ISPs), academic networks, and financial institutions.
Sessions like Geoff Huston’s detailed analysis of the QUIC protocol, which is revolutionizing Internet transport with speed and enhanced security, were highlights. The conference also tackled forward-looking threats like quantum computing through Paresh Khatri’s discourse on Post-Quantum Cryptography, urging stakeholders to prepare for “Q-Day.” Fellows also gained actionable insights into DNS security (via Champika Wijayatunga’s KINDNS initiative) and tools like ZEEK for real-time network visibility and threat detection, taught by Shamim Reza.
The Industry Context: Why the APNIC Fellowship Matters
The 2025 APNIC Fellowship aligns with the global demand for skilled network professionals as digital infrastructure becomes more vital to economies and societies. The Asia-Pacific region, which houses over 4.7 billion people, is a critical hub for global Internet growth but faces challenges such as cybersecurity risks, legacy infrastructure, and a shortage of skilled IT professionals. Programs like the APNIC Fellowship address this talent gap by fostering technical expertise and community leadership among the region’s rising stars in Internet operations.
In addition to technical training, the fellowship promotes cross-cultural collaboration. Participants like Joyeeta Sen Rimpee from Bangladesh, who shared her expertise in DNS infrastructure, and Sri Lanka’s Charuka Damunupola, whose work in national CERT cybersecurity operations was featured, brought unique perspectives. These diverse viewpoints are crucial as the Internet becomes increasingly decentralized and regulated across regions.
Future Outlook: Building a Robust Network Operator Ecosystem
As the Internet continues to evolve, initiatives like the APNIC Fellowship serve as critical opportunities for developing technical and leadership skills. Fellows emerge not only as network specialists but as community ambassadors, fostering an environment of shared knowledge and collaboration.
The challenges outlined in the fellowship sessions—such as transitioning to post-quantum cryptographic systems and automating network operations—highlight the need for continuous learning and skill development. Participants like Myanmar’s Aung Thu Min and Khin Htet Htet Tun exemplified this commitment, balancing demanding professional roles with rigorous certification paths like the CCIE. Their stories underscore the resilience required to meet the Internet’s growing complexity.
According to Sajidur Rahman Rabby, who is now preparing for his CCIE certification inspired by his fellowship peers, the program’s success illustrates how technical know-how and community support can build a safer, more resilient global Internet ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
The APNIC Fellowship is more than just a technical training program—it’s a unique platform for shaping the future of Internet operations through community building, mentorship, and cutting-edge learning opportunities. With the Internet continuing to transform industries and daily life, the importance of fostering this new generation of experts cannot be overstated.
What do you think about the role of fellowships in addressing the global IT and telecom skills gap? Share your thoughts below!
