CISCO NETWORKING ACADEMY AS A TOOL FOR DEVELOPING PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCES IN TECHNICAL STUDENTS

The article examines the potential of Cisco Networking Academy as a tool for developing professional competencies of students of technical specialities, in particular, Computer Science and Cybersecurity and Information Protection. The relevance of integrating digital educational platforms into the educational process in order to improve the quality of training of future IT specialists is substantiated. An analysis of the capabilities of the Cisco Academy programme, which combines academic theory with practical skills through the use of modern online resources, Cisco Packet Tracer simulation software, testing, laboratory work and certifications, is presented. The benefits of CCNA courses are discussed: "Introduction to Networking and Fundamentals of Switching, Routing, and Wireless Networks, which are integrated into the discipline of Computer Networks at Borys Grinchenko Kyiv Metropolitan University. The study modules are detailed, which contribute to the systematic assimilation of knowledge, development of network administration skills, device configuration, design of network solutions, and understanding of the principles of information security. The importance of independent study of the material, the use of visualisations, online content and automated assessment is emphasised. The results of student surveys, which confirm the effectiveness of the educational process, high level of course satisfaction and increased readiness for professional activity, are highlighted. The conclusion is made about the expediency of scaling up the practice of using Cisco Networking Academy in the higher education system to strengthen the practice-oriented training of specialists in accordance with the requirements of the digital labour market.