RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s National Cybersecurity Authority on Monday launched the “CyberIC” program to develop the Kingdom’s cybersecurity sector, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The program aims to develop national capabilities in the field of cybersecurity, localize cybersecurity technology through training.
According to the authority, the first phase of the program includes several initiatives including training of employees of national authorities, accelerating cybersecurity activities to stimulate the sector, and encouraging the development of national cybersecurity products, services and solutions.
The program will also see the launch of the second version of the cybersecurity challenge and programs for chief information security officers in cooperation with international universities. The courses will include a set of cyber exercises that take place in a virtual environment that simulates real cyberattacks and incidents.
HIGHLIGHTS
The program will also see the launch of the second version of the cybersecurity challenge and programs for chief information security officers in cooperation with international universities.
It will support more than 40 startups through the cybersecurity accelerator and establish more than 20 startups through the cybersecurity challenge.
Around 10,000 Saudis in the cybersecurity sector will receive support through CyberIC.
More than 5,000 Saudis will be trained through advanced cyber exercises.
The initiative is based on six main tracks: Innovation and entrepreneurship, cybersecurity officers, cybersecurity trainers, fresh graduates, cybersecurity specialists, and law enforcement agencies.
The first phase of CyberIC seeks to raise the number of cybersecurity startups in the sector by assisting more than 60 national companies. The program will support more than 40 startups through the cybersecurity accelerator and establish more than 20 startups through the cybersecurity challenge.
In addition, around 10,000 Saudis in the cybersecurity sector will receive support through CyberIC, including more than 1,500 beneficiaries in national authorities; 150 cybersecurity officials, who will be offered leadership skills training; and more than 5,000 Saudis will be trained through advanced cyber exercises.
