ICCI Students Explore the Future of Cryptography at Cayman Enterprise City Talk

The International College of the Cayman Islands (ICCI) recently took a group of Information Technology students to Cayman Enterprise City (CEC) for a special lecture led by renowned applied cryptographer Mario Yaksetig founder of BitFashioned SEZC (Special Economic Zone Company). The event, organised and supervised by ICCI IT Instructor Christopher Balraj, forms part of the College’s continued work to provide students meaningful exposure to real industry environments and emerging technologies.

Yaksetig, known internationally for his contributions to advanced cryptographic systems, walked students through the rapidly evolving landscape of cybersecurity, decentralised technologies, and post-quantum cryptography. His work spans the design and analysis of cryptographic protocols, including pioneering “quantum-secure fallbacks”, an approach that allows quantum-resistant keys to be embedded within standard elliptic curve key pairs.

“Understanding cryptography is essential for anyone entering the crypto space,” said Yaksetig. “These principles underpin everything from messaging apps like WhatsApp to blockchain and even AI. Giving students front-row exposure to evolving systems ensures Cayman’s talent is ready for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow’s digital economy.” 

His academic background includes studying under Professor Alan Sherman, a notable student of Turing Award winner Ron Rivest, one of the creators of RSA encryption. Yaksetig’s research has been referenced by blockchain visionary Vitalik Buterin, and he has co-authored publications with Bart Preneel, whose work includes one of the hash functions used in Bitcoin. His professional collaborations include projects with cryptography pioneer David Chaum and author Neal Stephenson, who coined the term metaverse.

Yaksetig’s research in blockchain and cryptography has been funded by major foundations such as Algorand, Chainlink, Worldcoin, Sei, Dfinity (ICP), Polygon, and Starknet, reinforcing his influence in shaping secure digital systems across the industry.

ICCI Instructor Christopher Balraj emphasised the significance of exposing students to experts working at the forefront of innovation.

“Bringing students to talks like this allows them to connect academic theory with real-world applications,” Balraj said. “Cryptography is at the heart of modern security and blockchain development, and hearing directly from someone who is shaping the field gives our students invaluable perspective.”

ICCI Interim-President Dr. John Cummings reaffirmed the College’s dedication to maintaining robust, industry-aligned academic programmes. “At ICCI, we are committed to providing high-quality education that prepares our students for advancement in global technology fields,” said Dr Cummings. “Opportunities like this reflect our mission to ensure students gain meaningful exposure to current research, innovation, and career pathways.”

ICCI continues to strengthen partnerships and hands-on learning experiences that support students as they prepare to enter an increasingly competitive digital landscape. The College remains focused on equipping future graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in technology-driven careers.

How to Enrol

Registration is now open for the upcoming term at ICCI. Classes begin 7 January 2026. Prospective students can learn more, apply, or speak directly with an advisor by visiting www.icci.edu.ky or emailing admissions@icci.edu.ky.