Cyber security: The next generation of technology talent is vital

Technology education, as simple as it sounds, consists of an embodiment of many branches in computer sciences. Throughout my experience as a specialist in the technology sector, I have come to understand that there are really no limits to the greatness of technology and the benefits it brings in todays day and age. In the last two decades, a tremendous amount of change has been experienced in the world. Industrialisation and major advancements have positively affected financial liberalisation. There have also been changes and new inventions in different sectors of society. The development of the technology sector has positively influenced organisations, businesses, companies, and even governments as most businesses are carried out through the use of digital technology.

Digital technology is rapidly creating an impact on many areas of our existence. Politics, the environment, health, agriculture, and other fields have all advanced. One would find that there has been a tremendous amount of change in the globe as a result of digital technology if they compared the digital advancement in our world today to two decades ago. The world is advancing more quickly due to the use of digital technologies. A new chapter of life is being introduced, one which would be very beneficial to the entire citizenry as these technological advancements are slowly and steadily creeping into the world. However, digital technology will not be totally safe if measures are not put in place to secure it.

Cyber security, a branch in technology, and in my opinion, one of the most important aspects in technology, is often overlooked and given less attention than it should be especially in third world nations like Nigeria. Students in the technology sector are being trained with little to no understanding of the value of cyber security and how to improve cyber security. In light of this, it is obvious that the role of today’s technology professionals and specialists is to enlighten and guide students in order for them to consider developing skills in cyber security.

Phishing, ransomware, crypto jacking, and other cyber security concerns are on the rise, and it is obvious that digital technology is vulnerable to these dangers, which need to be appropriately addressed to prevent more issues. Therefore, developing the next generation of technological professionals that are well-versed in technology as well as knowledgeable and skilled in cyber security will be extremely beneficial to the sector. Currently, there is a major shortage of cyber talent worldwide. This school year, Josh Lemon, a SANS Institute training instructor, suggests that the curriculum place a greater emphasis on cyber security. With the increase in cyber risks, cyber security appears to be one of the most neglected technological aspects. Students are more interested in frontend and backend development, UI/UX design, website development, and other significant facets of technological leadership than they are in the dangers posed by cyber insecurity.

The continued improvements in technology and digital innovations show how much more competence is required in the field of cyber security. The possibility for cyberattacks on the Blockchain system should be taken into consideration to further demonstrate the significance of cyber security. In terms of financial exchange, blockchain has represented a significant financial advance. The bitcoin system was made possible by blockchain technology. In several ways, blockchain technology has benefited financial processes. Without the assistance of a bank, faster, more dependable, and transparent transactions are now possible due to the existence of blockchain technology. The next generation of businesses has the potential to be ruled by blockchain technology. Some businesses now accept Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies as payment, and most nations are gradually moving away from using traditional currencies.

It has been proven that cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are extremely difficult to hack due to the high level of encryption used to protect them. However, Lexology explained that overriding a minor error at only one end of the blockchain will be extremely difficult, if not impossible. Any perceived insecurity of Bitcoin could be exploited by cyber criminals to commit their crimes, posing a long-term threat to validity of the technology’s cyber security. In order to improve the security and dependability of digital technology, it is vital to develop technology talent that can handle any upcoming challenges in crucial industries like Blockchain.

I have made it a life’s goal to preach the importance and value that cyber security brings to the table of our financial and economic security as Nigerians and have thought about this importance in various outreaches and situations I have found myself throughout my career. Being an official at a few Code Camps, I have ensured to participate in training and mentoring new technical talent alongside my major responsibilities. I always make sure that the camp does not conclude without the students also understanding the significance of cyber security just as I have. I have done my part in providing a basic understanding of cyber security to the students and also stressed its importance in digital technology with hopes that the upcoming generation are eager to participate in this life saver sector of technology. Through this, I think we, as the current generation of technology specialists, have an opportunity to develop a new group of tech professionals who will be able to carry on the fight against cyberthreats in our esteemed technology sectors. The sector is losing credibility as technology safety becomes prone to threats.

The future generation has several prospects in the field of cyber security. As healthcare workers try to improve patient confidentiality and secure sensitive information, for instance, healthcare cyber security is crucial. Cybercriminals are attacking medical infrastructure more frequently, and there are fewer experts available to solve this problem for them. Healthcare and life-saving endeavors suffer from a lack of expertise in the field of digital technology. Cybercriminals are still on the rise every day, despite the digital technology sector’s ongoing talent shortage.

There are so many strengths the cyber security sector can bring to the development of a state, as well as the development of infrastructures within the state and it is because of this reason that I believe that more Nigerians, especially those in the technology sector, or trying to start a journey in the technology sector, should embrace the idea of majoring in cybersecurity. Not only is there a high demand of this job in many countries across the world, but there is also a feeling of employment security and financial stability that comes with it. I for one, would always welcome anyone that would love to take up a career in this field, and urge you to join us on our next Techpatrait code camp happening in March 2023, more information about this can be found on our website. There are also very affordable platforms where the knowledge of cybersecurity can be obtained. Platforms like Udemy, Cousera, and many others have several free and very affordable lectures by hundreds of experts in the field to choose from.

It Is crucial that the next generation begins to enter the technology industry soon. Every student should be expected to have knowledge of cyber security, and achieving this goal should be a priority. The first step toward making this a reality is for current technological experts to inspire and foster an enthusiasm for cyber security through leadership and mentoring. The awareness of cyber security among technology talent worldwide must grow through the present technology professionals.