We are thrilled to announce the launch of an exciting new initiative that brings together the worlds of technology and sports: the 2026 EMEA Cisco Networking Academy Cup, in collaboration with Real Madrid!
This groundbreaking competition is open to Cisco Networking Academy instructors, students, and academies across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and CIS. The Cup is designed to develop valuable skills, encourage collaboration, and spark innovation, all while offering a unique experience and the opportunity to win fantastic prizes
To help you promote the event at your academy, additional information and marketing assets are available in the sections below on this website.
Register today to get started! Not an instructor yet? Request for more information here.
EMEA NetAcad Cup Learn-A-Thon
Length of Learn-A-Thon
Participate in the Learn-A-Thon from 12 January until 8 March 2026.
Students must complete courses on the netacad.com platform.
Benefits
These courses collectively equip learners with essential knowledge and skills to understand and address cybersecurity threats, leverage artificial intelligence responsibly, support digital transformation through IoT, maintain digital safety, and build strong networking capabilities.
In-Demand Skills
Foundational networking knowledge, security expertise, and emerging technology competencies are essential skills to keep pace with rapid technological changes, including the integration of AI in networking and cybersecurity.
Courses
Multiple activities and quizzes engage students and reinforce learning.
Introduction to IoT and Digital Transformation
Digital Safety and Security Awareness
Free to join
The cost to join the Learn-A-Thon is free.
Level
Beginner.
Incentives for students to join the Learn-A-Thon
Students who participate in the Learn-A-Thon and pass any eligible course exam with a 70% or above will be awarded the respective course digital badge.
Students that participate in the Learn-A-Thon will receive a Cisco Learn-A-Thon experience digital badge.
A Cisco digital badge is an emblem distinguishing an achievement that can be shared and validated digitally on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, Xing, via Email, shared link; embed code into web page or blog.
After the Learn-A-Thon, encourage students to continue to complete the participating courses. The CCST Networking exam certification is an excellent steppingstone for learners to validate their skills and then continue to associate-level certifications like CCNA or CyberOps Associate.
Timeline - Learn-A-Thon
Awards - Learn-A-Thon
Cisco branded prizes will be awarded to the Top 20 academies per region with the highest score of student participants, student completions and badges awarded.
The Top 3 academies per country will be invited to participate in the EMEA Cisco Networking Academy Cup – Capture the Flag.
In the event of a tie, the academy that achieved the highest points at the earliest time will be awarded the prize. Only one prize per academy will be awarded.
How Academies Join the Learn-A-Thon
Registration
Promotion
Download these files to promote the Learn-A-Thon in your academy.
The three highest-scoring academies from each participating country will qualify for Phase 2: EMEA Cisco Networking Academy Cup – Capture the Flag. Each qualifying academy will select a team of four students to represent them and compete in the event, which begins on April 16, 2026.
The challenge will feature exclusive content developed in collaboration with Real Madrid and Cisco, highlighting the digital transformation of the Santiago Bernabeu stadium. The Capture the Flag tournament, will consist of two phases and focus on three key areas: digital signage, WiFi 6, and network infrastructure.