Project Overview
The 'Workshop on Virtualization and Cloud Computing for NREN Engineers' was a regional initiative aimed at bridging the skills gap in cloud technologies across Asian National Research and Education Networks (NRENs). This hands-on training workshop addressed the urgent need for practical cloud computing skills in academic and research environments.
Activities Conducted
VMware Training
Interactive lectures and lab sessions on virtualization using VMware vSphere and desktop virtualization via VMware Horizon.
OpenStack Implementation
Hands-on experience with OpenStack modules, managing IaaS services and implementing cloud-native designs.
Data Center Visits
Technical visits to BdREN's Tier-3 Data Center for real-time observation of network operations.
Cultural Exchange
Evening cultural exchange sessions to foster international collaboration and networking among participants.
Key Outcomes
The workshop successfully equipped 35 NREN engineers with practical cloud deployment experience. Participants developed region-wide connections for troubleshooting and technical collaboration. Several institutions initiated proof-of-concept deployments using workshop content, particularly with OpenStack and containerized applications.
Regional Impact
Many participants expressed interest in replicating the workshop format in their own countries, leveraging local infrastructure and peer support networks established during the training in Bangladesh.
Partner Organizations
Organized by BdREN and endorsed by the University Grants Commission of Bangladesh, featuring extensive collaboration across the Asian region.
LEARN
Sri Lanka
NREN
Nepal
PREGINET
Philippines
DrukREN
Bhutan
LERNET
Laos
VINAREN
Vietnam
CamREN
Cambodia
MYREN
Malaysia
Challenges and Future Directions
While the workshop achieved excellent regional participation, challenges included limited female participation (only one female participant), infrastructure compatibility issues for immediate OpenStack implementation, and the need for enhanced post-training support.
Future Plans
BdREN plans to launch an internal PaaS platform using container orchestration and serve as a regional training hub. Inclusion strategies are being developed to encourage participation of female engineers and junior technical staff in future programs.
Sustainable Development Goals
This project contributes to multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals: