150 receive cyber security training

The Government of Barbados remains committed to strengthening its cyber security defence capabilities in all sectors on the island.

This was the strong message delivered by Minister of Education, Technological and Vocational Training, Kay McConney, who spoke during the virtual launch ceremony for an online cyber security analyst programme, being conducted by Cyber Nations, in partnership with SDOCCA Cyber and George Brown College of Canada.

In a brief address, Minister McConney told the first cohort of 150 students that the threat of cyber attacks and other online vulnerabilities remained a real and present danger to the island’s security infrastructure.

“Cyber threats have been and continue to be one of the highest security risks that threaten all segments of society. We are all at risk from ever more sophisticated attacks owing to our reliance on technology… Adequate cyber security capabilities and preparedness are essential for our economic success and prosperity in the digital economy.

“Knowing that cyber threats can have a devastating impact on individuals and businesses, it makes it incumbent on this government to be proactive in putting measures in place to combat this threat,” she explained.

The education minister emphasised that the 16-week online course, which is being financed by the Student Revolving Loan Fund (SRLF),  is fully geared at providing students with the requisite skills to not only tackle cyber threats locally, but also in the international space.

“This four-month intensive course that you will be engaged in, will equip you with the knowledge and the skills to assist your country in fighting cyber threats. Indeed, at the conclusion of this course, not only will you be well prepared to help Barbados in our cyber security fight, but you will be well-positioned to assist countries around the world.”

She added: “We have ensured that this course will provide you with a solid foundation in the fundamentals of cyber security.

“Providing Barbadians with skills that will make you attractive to international organisations. It fits well with the government’s strategy of creating global citizens; that is individuals with the knowledge and the skills and the right attitude, that would make you employable worldwide.”

McConney also expressed hope that a total of 1500 Barbadians will be trained in cyber security during the next several months. (SB)