On a journey across Scotland, cyber security students will hope to attract more young people to the growing sector
LAUNCHING A UNIQUE cyber skills initiative which hopes to attract more young Scots into cyber security careers, an expert has said Scotland must grow its cyber talent pool to respond to the growing threat of cyber-crime.
The “Cyber Bus” will tour schools across Scotland, with interactive lessons delivered in part by current cyber security students from Abertay, Dundee and Glasgow Caledonian Universities.
Beginning its journey at Drumchapel High School, the bus will visit Kyle Academy, Perth Grammar and Kingussie High School throughout March.
“The threat of cyber-crime is only going to increase, which is why Scotland needs a strong talent pool of cyber security professionals.” Dr Martin Beaton, cyber security cluster coordinator
Speaking at the launch of the project, which is supported by the Scottish Government, Dr Martin Beaton, cyber security cluster coordinator for Scotland, said: “The threat of cyber-crime is only going to increase, which is why Scotland needs a strong talent pool of cyber security professionals.
“Currently, there is a chronic shortage of skilled workers, which is where our lesson plans come in. They are fun, engaging and genuinely intend to inspire young people to consider a career in the cyber security industry, as well as offer friendly advice on how best to stay safe online.
“Government statistics have revealed that almost half of UK firms were hit by a cyber breach or attack in the past 12-months. The cyber security sector is suffering from a chronic shortage of skilled professionals, which is where our lesson plans come in. They are fun, engaging and genuinely intend to inspire young people to consider a career in the cyber security industry.”
An investigation by the civil liberties group Big Brother Watch in February revealed cyber attacks had resulted in data losses at three Scottish local authorities, and there were over 98 million cyber attacks in the past five years on UK councils.
The ‘Cyber Bus’ tour, which will be extended to other areas of Scotland if successful, will also raise awareness of the dangers of being online and aim to teach young people on how to protect themselves in an “increasingly digital world”.
The UK National Crime Agency (NCA) has also prioritised preventing young people from getting involved in cyber crime.
Picture courtesy of Cyber Bus initiative
Look at how important CommonSpace has become, and how vital it is for the future #SupportAReporter