FG trains 518 youths on cybersecurity

The Federal Ministry of Education has trained 518 young Nigerians in information and cybersecurity to prepare them for a better future.

The tracks covered by the training included ethical hacking essentials, network defence essentials, digital forensics essentials and Junior Cyber Security Analyst.

Others included network technician, data protection policy, ISC2 and Qualys.

The training was highlighted at the Cyber 30-30 Internship, Membership and Pitch Competition project launch with support from the Ministry of Education, in Abuja, recently.

Mrs Blessing Ogwu, National Project Coordinator, Innovation, Development and Effectiveness in Acquisition of Skills (IDEAS) Innovation Grant Fund (IGF) in the ministry, said the project initially aimed at training 500 individuals.

Ogwu, who was represented by Professor Ndem Ndiyo, National Consultant, IDEAS Project, said the ministry ended up training 518 youths with 418 successful certifications.

“The Cyber 30-30 project is an initiative standing as a beacon of hope and opportunity for thousands of young Nigerians.

“We have been able to provide the necessary funding, trigger technical expertise and global perspectives that have enriched the programme.

“The training programme has been rigorous and comprehensive, covering key areas in cybersecurity.

“These certifications are passports to global opportunities. They validate the skills and knowledge that our trainees have acquired and position them as credible professionals in the highly competitive field of cybersecurity,” she  said.

The Project Coordinator said the training covered eight tracks, adding that most of the trainees have successfully covered five tracks.

According to her, Cyber 30-30 has partnered with India, Zambia and Rwanda to absorb trainees into specialised internship programmes.

She said the internship would provide a global perspective on cybersecurity, allowing them to gain invaluable experience and insights that would enhance their employability and career prospects.

Ogwu encouraged the youth to take advantage of the programme and never cease to learn.

In his remarks, Mr Yeshua Russel, Team Leader, described the gesture as one that promised to equip trainees with invaluable skills and open doors to new opportunities.

“We stand at the threshold of a transformative journey, one that promises to equip our trainees with invaluable skills and open doors to new opportunities.

“Let us embrace this moment with enthusiasm and commitment as we embark on this impactful endeavour together,” Russel said.

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