£1.9m Boost For Northern Ireland's Cyber Security Skills

A range of projects across Northern Ireland will benefit from a £1.9 million investment to bolster the UK's cyber defences and address the growing skills gap in the cyber security sector.

Announced by the UK government, the initiative will see funding allocated to projects across England and Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland, a specific project will focus on attracting more neurodiverse workers to the cyber security field, contributing to a more diverse talent pool.

This focus on neurodiversity aligns with the growing recognition of the valuable skills and perspectives that neurodiverse individuals can bring to the workplace. By encouraging more people from these communities to pursue careers in cyber security, the project aims to strengthen Northern Ireland's cyber workforce. The overall initiative is part of the government's Plan for Change, which aims to stimulate economic growth and bolster the UK's digital security. The investment will support a variety of projects, including programs to upskill workers in small businesses and initiatives to encourage women and girls to pursue careers in cyber security.

Minister for Cyber Security Feryal Clark emphasised the importance of a strong cyber workforce in protecting the UK's growing digital economy. She highlighted various aspects of the initiative, including the Cyber Explorers Cup competition, designed to engage young minds in cyber security from a young age.

The Cyber Explorers Cup is a free, interactive learning platform that equips students with essential digital skills and introduces them to the potential of a career in cyber security.

By investing in projects that address the cyber skills gap and initiatives that inspire future generations, the UK government aims to ensure a more secure digital landscape and create new opportunities for people across the country.