From July to September 2025, I had the opportunity to complete my second ENSURE-6G secondment at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura (USJ) in Sri Lanka. This visit focused on one of the most exciting frontiers of next-generation networks: security and privacy in Open RAN using decentralized identity technologies.
Diving Into Decentralized Identity for 5G/6G
My main effort during the secondment centered on exploring how Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI), Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs), and Verifiable Credentials (VCs) can enhance trust, authentication, and authorization in Open RAN environments.
Throughout the stay, I conducted an in-depth literature study and worked closely with USJ researchers to analyze how decentralized identity models could address the evolving security needs of disaggregated networks
Looking Ahead: Telemedicine Use Case Collaboration
USJ is planning to develop a telemedicine-focused use case later within the ENSURE-6G project timeline. Although work on this use case has not started yet, we discussed how DID-based identity management can support secure patient data handling, privacy-aware communication, and stronger authentication flows once their implementation begins.
We agreed to continue collaborating beyond the secondment to support the security, privacy, and identity management components when the use case reaches a mature development phase.
Knowledge Sharing and Local Impact
During my stay, I also conducted short training sessions for USJ instructors on working with USRP N210 SDR devices—supporting their future laboratory activities.
Beyond training, we also reinforced our ongoing academic partnership, including plans to co-supervise student projects related to Open RAN security and decentralized identity mechanisms.
Closing Thoughts
This secondment strengthened our collaboration with USJ and helped lay the groundwork for innovative, privacy-preserving security frameworks for future Open RAN deployments. I’m excited to continue building on this work — particularly as we progress toward real-world applications such as secure telemedicine in 6G networks.
