Kenyan cybersecurity professional Diana Waithanji has been appointed Interim Dean of Cybersecurity at Touro University Berlin, marking a new chapter in her career as she takes on an academic leadership role in Germany.
Waithanji announced the appointment on Wednesday, November 11, saying she will also join the university’s faculty.
“I have been appointed as the Interim Dean of Cybersecurity and a member of the faculty at Touro University Berlin. I look forward to what lies ahead in this new chapter of my career in academia,” she wrote in a post on X.
The appointment places Waithanji in an academic leadership position at a time when universities and businesses are facing growing demand for cybersecurity expertise, driven by increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks, artificial intelligence and the digitisation of critical infrastructure.
Her move into academia also highlights opportunities for African technology professionals to contribute to international cybersecurity education, research and skills development.
As Interim Dean, Waithanji will be taking on a leadership role in cybersecurity education, although the university has not yet publicly detailed the responsibilities, duration or scope of her appointment in the information provided.
The appointment comes as cybersecurity skills shortages remain a challenge globally, creating opportunities for universities to strengthen industry partnerships and develop professionals capable of responding to emerging digital threats.
Waithanji’s announcement did not indicate whether she will continue holding other professional responsibilities alongside her new academic position.
Editor’s note: This article is based on Waithanji’s public announcement. Her appointment and specific responsibilities have not been independently confirmed with Touro University Berlin.
