Intelligent CIO Africa Issue 61 | Page 75

FINAL WORD
Middle East for example , several universities offer bachelor ’ s and master ’ s degree programmes in cybersecurity . These programmes are designed to help young people explore their passion for tech by introducing them to cybersecurity .
This is fantastic , but the industry needs to do more , such as partnering with local schools and funding more science , technology , engineering and mathematics ( STEM ) programmes . We need to create more internship and apprenticeship opportunities for early talent . In addition , vendors should look at launching robust upskilling or retraining initiatives internally .
Passionate problem solvers
Those looking towards a career in cybersecurity need to be able to thrive in an environment that is dynamic and fast-moving . It is a sector that is critical to the economies of countries in the Middle East and Africa ( MEA ), and to the daily lives of people .
Key attributes include being able to be calm under pressure , be lateral thinkers , versatile and dedicated problem solvers . It ’ s the same as any industry ; police officers have chosen that career path through a desire to protect the public . Cybersecurity professionals are passionate about protecting the infrastructure of nations and enterprises . This is an important job , but an exhilarating one , too . Without a second thought , people , businesses and institutions all over the region
I firmly believe that the future of security will only be as strong as tomorrow ’ s talent . And as the talent gap continues , companies need to get creative about how and where they find the next cyber expert .
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