CFAC academic team, clockwise from top left: Dr. Boris Saavedra, Dr. Heriberto Acosta, Mr. Gianncarlo Gomez, Diego Rodriguez
From July 1 to 31, 2025, the William J. Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies delivered the Cybersecurity Fundamentals Asynchronous Course (CFAC) for participants from Panama and Paraguay. Facilitated by Perry Center Professor Dr. Boris Saavedra and Cyber Policy Fellow Dr. Heriberto Acosta-Maestre, the course was developed to provide foundational knowledge in key areas of cybersecurity at the technical, policy, and strategic levels with an eye toward strengthening institutional capacity to defend against cyber risks. Designed specifically for professionals working in the security and defense sectors, the course aimed to enhance understanding of the governance and regulation of cyberspace activities; to offer the analytical tools necessary for responsible and effective use of cyber capabilities in today’s strategic environment; to promote the development of cybersecurity and defense policies that encourage cooperation across national, regional, and international spheres; and to foster an environment of trust and interagency collaboration through shared learning.
Over the course of a month, 73 participants navigated a series of academic modules presented by the Perry Center team and guest subject matter experts – each exploring core issues such as malicious influence in cyberspace, ransomware, critical infrastructure protection, cybercrime, internet governance, artificial intelligence, and insider threats. Rather than relying on real-time lectures or live discussions, the course emphasized self-paced exploration of the material, complementary readings, applied writing, and opportunities for group discussions with course facilitators. This model encouraged thoughtful interaction with complex topics and empowered participants to apply the concepts to national contexts through an analytical essay on a relevant cybersecurity issue.
The Perry Center reaffirms its commitment to supporting partner nations in developing cybersecurity strategies that strengthen national resilience and enhance regional collaboration and preparedness.
