Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution’s Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Technologies recently became a hub for young IT professionals from across Europe. For the second consecutive year, the blended intensive programme (BIP) ‘Ethical Hacking’ brought together students and lecturers from higher education institutions in Finland, Belgium, and Germany. This year’s event saw participation from partners within the UNINOVIS network, including Tampere University of Applied Sciences (TAMK) from Finland and Technische Hochschule Würzburg-Schweinfurt (THWS) from Germany.

Both students and faculty shared their expertise and best practices in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity, with a guest lecturer from Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences in Latvia offering insights into the legal aspects of cybersecurity.

Over the course of five days, participants explored various facets of cybersecurity – from network packet analysis and blockchain technologies to the legal and ethical implications of hacking. The programme was not only filled with technical challenges but also included cultural experiences that allowed participants to better connect with Lithuania and each other.

The week kicked off on Monday with a warm welcome and an introductory session, during which lecturers outlined the programme’s schedule and key concepts of ethical hacking. The first technical sessions focused on network analysis, data flow analysis, and practical examples that underscored the importance of responsibly applying cybersecurity knowledge. In the evening, an ice-breaker event, which included bowling, helped participants break the ice and transition from formal interactions to a more cohesive team dynamic.

Tuesday was dedicated to exploring blockchain technologies and their legal and ethical aspects. Participants discussed the fine line between technological curiosity and responsibility, with a focus on ensuring that innovations respect privacy and security boundaries. The afternoon featured practical sessions on Bluetooth protocol analysis and real-world attack simulations.

On Wednesday, the group had the opportunity to experience the cultural side of Kaunas. They visited the Art Deco Museum, where they learned about the city’s interwar architectural heritage, followed by a trip to the M. K. Čiurlionis National Museum of Art. Here, participants explored the intersection of art and technology through the museum’s virtual reality exhibition, ‘The Creation of the Worlds,’ which offered a new perspective on the works of renowned Lithuanian artist M. K. Čiurlionis. Over lunch, participants shared their experiences, discussing both technology and the cultural differences they encountered.

Thursday and Friday were dominated by advanced practical sessions. Participants honed their skills in smart contract programming, while the ‘Capture the Flag’ competition provided a real-time challenge, testing their abilities to identify security vulnerabilities and defend systems. The week concluded with a final session where participants reviewed their results, exchanged impressions, and explored opportunities for future collaboration.

The organisers emphasised the importance of such events, not only for students but also for the institutions involved. They help promote international collaboration, facilitate the exchange of knowledge, and foster academic and professional connections. “Ethical hacking is not just about technical expertise; it’s about the ability to understand responsibility, think critically, and contribute to a safer digital world,” the organisers noted.

Representatives from Kauno kolegija’s Faculty of Computing, Engineering, and Technologies also expressed their enthusiasm for the success of this year’s BIP week, stating that it has encouraged plans for next year’s event. The upcoming programme will feature an even broader range of participants and topics, including not only cybersecurity but also applications of artificial intelligence and data ethics.