IBM has announced its support for plans to diversify the UK’s cyber sector and encourage young people into cyber careers. This move is part of the government’s efforts to safeguard online services that drive economic growth, a key aspect of the Plan for Change.
To achieve this goal, IBM has partnered with the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology (DSIT) and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) to provide the online platform for the CyberFirst Girls competition. This UK-wide program is open to girls between the ages of 12 and 13, aiming to develop their computing and cyber skills.
The CyberFirst Girls Competition has been running since 2017 and has already engaged over 85,000 students across the country. The program puts students through a series of cyber challenges, including cryptography, networking, and artificial intelligence, to build their skills and encourage them to consider future careers in the field.
Improving diversity in the UK’s cyber sector is crucial, as women currently make up only 17% of the cyber workforce. Despite average salaries exceeding £56,000, with top earners receiving up to £350,000, almost half of UK businesses report cyber security skills gaps. This highlights the need to develop the next generation of cyber security leaders.
Minister for Cyber Security Feryal Clark emphasized the importance of building a diverse workforce that reflects every community in the country. By partnering with IBM, the government aims to drive forward its plans to develop the skills of young girls and nurture the next generation of UK cyber leaders.
The UK Cyber Team program, an e-sports style cyber security competition, has also been launched to identify the next generation of cyber talent. With 30 competitors selected from across the country, the team represents a diverse range of communities and backgrounds.
IBM’s commitment to fostering diversity in cybersecurity is evident in their ‘Diversity & Inclusion in Cybersecurity’ initiative. Mark Hughes, IBM Global Managing Partner for Cyber Security, expressed his delight in partnering with the NCSC and DSIT to support the CyberFirst Girls competition, highlighting the importance of nurturing the next generation of cyber leaders and ensuring a more inclusive and robust industry.
