Singapore is addressing the pressing talent shortage in the cybersecurity sector by introducing innovative training programs. The 2022 Cybersecurity Workforce Study conducted by non-profit ISC2 reveals a critical need for 6,071 more cybersecurity professionals in Singapore.
This talent gap is especially concerning as cyberattacks are increasing in frequency, complexity, and sophistication. Notably, Singapore Cyber Emergency Response Team (SingCERT) received reports of approximately 8,500 phishing attempts in 2022, more than double the number in 2021. Moreover, the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) reported a 13% global increase in ransomware incidents in 2022.
To combat this issue, CSA has initiated the SG Cyber Associates program, which aims to equip non-cybersecurity professionals with foundational and specialized cybersecurity training. This training will enable them to develop cybersecurity skills relevant to their specific job roles. CSA is collaborating with professional organizations and training providers to extend this program to engineers, auditors, lawyers, IT professionals, and software developers.
For engineers, the need for cybersecurity training is vital due to the rapid digitalization of engineering systems under Industry 4.0. Regulatory measures, such as the Cybersecurity Codes of Practice, are also encouraging organizations to invest in cybersecurity resilience.
Auditors and lawyers will benefit from cybersecurity training as it will help them better understand and address issues like cyber risk and data security. This knowledge will empower them to assist clients in improving their management of cyber risks, including threats like ransomware and scams. In the IT sector, where security is encouraged from the outset, equipping IT architects, project managers, and software developers with cybersecurity skills will result in more secure products and services.
CSA is also collaborating with training providers to offer online training, assessment, and certification under the program. Initially, it will extend ISC2’s One Million Certified in Cybersecurity (1MCC) initiative within the SG Cyber Associates program, aiming to provide 10,000 training and exam slots over three years for those in Singapore seeking entry-level cybersecurity certifications.
In addition to foundational training, CSA will work with professional bodies to create customized cybersecurity training programs to meet their members’ specific needs. The Institution of Engineers Singapore (IES) is among the first partners, with courses in specific technology domains like Internet of Things security scheduled for early next year.
To boost cybersecurity awareness within enterprises, CSA has partnered with NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB) under the SG Cyber Safe Partnership Program. NTUC LHUB will develop and offer relevant cybersecurity training programs to enhance cybersecurity awareness and adoption. One such program is the Cyber Awareness for Employees Workshop, which provides immersive learning experiences to help employees understand and defend against common cybersecurity attack vectors.
Additionally, Singapore has launched the SG Cyber Leadership and Alumni Programme, which includes various courses aimed at participants at different stages of their cybersecurity journey. These courses cover foundational concepts, operational and technical considerations, and key cyber issues. Participants will engage in hands-on training, real-world case studies, and keystone projects to bridge the gap between theory and practical implementation of cyber strategies. The program also fosters international discourse on cybersecurity and the exchange of best practices among participants.
Singapore’s commitment to cybersecurity capacity building includes funding of $30 million, which has been extended for three more years until 2026. The nation’s comprehensive approach aims to prepare its workforce to address the growing cybersecurity challenges in an increasingly digital world.
