Government of St. Kitts and Nevis Launches Cyber Security Training Programme

Basseterre, St. Kitts, January 09, 2025 (SKNIS): The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis is set to launch its groundbreaking Cyber Security Training Programme on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. This initiative aims to equip the first cohort of 100 young people with globally recognised, Canadian-standard certification in cyber security, providing them with the skills necessary to secure employment with companies worldwide.

Prime Minister Emphasizes Importance of Programme

During the January 07, 2025 edition of the RoundTable, Prime Minister, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew emphasised the importance of the programme, citing the growing demand for cyber security professionals amidst increasing instances of hacking and cyber threats.

“Cyber security personnel are needed, and as we see more and more hacking and so forth, we understand how critically important it is,” said Dr. Drew. “We are starting with 100 young people. After that, we want to increase the numbers so that our young people have options, and good options, in terms of the jobs that they will be able to get.”

Alignment with National Budget and TVET Programmes

This initiative is a key component of the government’s broader commitment to youth development, training, and employment opportunities outlined in the 2025 National Budget. The programme aligns with efforts to expand vocational training through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes.

Recent achievements in the TVET sector underscore the success of this approach. Three participants from the ELEVATE Programme, a transformation of the Peace Programme, recently graduated from the Advanced Vocational Education Centre (AVEC) – a historic first. Two of these graduates specialised in business and one in construction technology. Dr. Drew said the government plans to significantly increase vocational training opportunities this year, ensuring more young people are equipped for success in various fields.

Dr. Drew urged young people to seize the opportunities being provided.

“I want to encourage our youth to get educated, to get into business – meaningful business – and to seek training in specific jobs, whether in vocational fields, the cyber security field, the academic field, or wherever they choose.”

Conclusion

The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis is committed to empowering young people through education, training, and employment opportunities that meet the needs of a dynamic and evolving global economy. The Cyber Security Training Programme is a key component of this commitment, providing young people with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the global workforce.

FAQ

Q: What is the purpose of the Cyber Security Training Programme?

A: The programme aims to equip young people with globally recognised, Canadian-standard certification in cyber security, providing them with the skills necessary to secure employment with companies worldwide.

Q: How many young people will be participating in the programme?

A: The first cohort will consist of 100 young people, with plans to increase the numbers in the future.

Q: What is the alignment with the National Budget and TVET Programmes?

A: The programme is a key component of the government’s broader commitment to youth development, training, and employment opportunities outlined in the 2025 National Budget, and aligns with efforts to expand vocational training through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes.