ADDIS ABABA – The Information Network Security Administration (INSA) has announced a plan to expand its youth cyber security talent development program across the country to enhance citizens’ contributions to security and growth.
INSA’s Information Assurance Sector Coordinator, Hannibal Lemma, told The Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA) that the country plans to expand the summer camp cyber talent training program, which was previously offered only in Addis Ababa.
The number of young people receiving training and certification under the summer camp program has increased from 60 during the initial phase to 300, he stated.
According to him, the training is provided in collaboration with Addis Ababa Science and Technology University (AASTU).
“Such an enrichment program helps to discover the country’s potential and create opportunities for many young people. The training will help produce skilled human resources in cyber security,” Hannibal noted.
He further stated that the training would play a pivotal role in combating cyber bullying and safeguarding national security, as the growing digital realm has led to an increase in cyber attacks.
Therefore, developing cyber knowledge, talent, and skills is crucial to enabling young people to fight against cyber attacks while understanding Ethiopia’s context, he added.
“The ability to solve cyber security problems, the time it takes to resolve them, and projects that have passed psychometric tests are some of the requirements to qualify for the training, apart from interest,” he underlined.
Hannibal also stated that the Administration is working hard to address the shortage of skilled human resources by engaging the private sector and universities to offer regular courses.
It is worth recalling that INSA has been enrolling and certifying students from elementary and higher education institutions who have an interest in information technology and telecommunications.
BY MESERET BEHAILU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 18 MARCH 2025
