Cybersecurity skills shortage leaves South Africa exposed

South Africa’s cybersecurity skills shortage is leaving organisations vulnerable as cyberattacks become more frequent and sophisticated. Picture: iStock South Africa’s growing list of cybercrime victims includesbanks, telecommunications providers, government departments and one of the country’s largest credit bureaus, Experian. The attacks have exposed personal information, disrupted services and cost organisations millions, while highlighting a problem that receives far less attention: a shortage of people qualified to defend digital systems.

Research cited by MiDO Academy found that 56% of South African organisations struggle to recruit cybersecurity professionals, creating a gap in a sector where demand continues to grow ascyber threatsbecome more sophisticated. Dale Simons, CEO of the academy, said employers are often searching for experienced specialists while overlooking candidates who could be trained for the profession. “The traditional recruitment model isn’t working.

Organisations are hunting for five-year experts while cyber threats continue to increase,” said Simons. “By focusing on grit and potential rather than elite credentials, we can help address a very real skills shortage while creating opportunities for young people.” The academy was established in 2023 and offers an NQF level 5cybersecurityanalyst qualification. According to the organisation, 51 students have completed the programme, 43 have secured internships, learnerships or project placements and 16 have moved into permanent employment.

[paywall]

Those figures stand in contrast to South Africa’s broader youth employment picture. Statistics South Africa’s latest figures show youth labour underutilisation among people aged 15 to 24 remains above 60%, despite years of interventions aimed at improving employment prospects. He said the academy recruits candidates from underserved communities and places less emphasis on formal credentials than traditional hiring processes.

[/paywall]