The executive training session of the Cyber Academy kicked off in Rabat, bringing together leaders and officials responsible for cybersecurity. Organized by the General Directorate of Information System Security and the World Bank, in partnership with the Digital Academy for Smart Africa, the session aims to enhance the capacities of African leaders in cybersecurity governance and address challenges related to artificial intelligence and emerging cyber threats.
William Chang, Global Head of Digital Protections at the World Bank Group, emphasized the significance of this training, highlighting its role in building cybersecurity capacities worldwide. He noted that the session will address the rapidly evolving cyber risks associated with artificial intelligence, which require substantial preparedness from stakeholders to manage effectively.
Chang also pointed out that many cybersecurity organizations face resource shortages, making it difficult to cope with current challenges, let alone the amplified threat posed by artificial intelligence. He stressed the need for collaboration and idea-sharing to tackle this new reality, as the current capacities may not be sufficient to handle the increased volume of attacks.
Rim Jarou, Director of Partnerships, Events, and Communication at the Digital Academy for Smart Africa, highlighted the added value of this training, which aims to enhance the capacities of strategic leaders and cybersecurity officials. She emphasized the importance of equipping leaders with the necessary skills and knowledge to manage cybersecurity effectively, not only at the operational level but also strategically.
The training session features a range of international and African cybersecurity experts, who will lead interactive sessions and simulations of cyber crises. This will enable participants to discuss practical challenges related to decision-making and strategic leadership in cybersecurity. The session will run until October 8.
Participants include experts such as Tawfiq Ali Lakser, Head of the Cybersecurity Unit at Yemen's Ministry of Communications and Information Technology. He stressed the need for a solid foundation for cybersecurity leaders, including the ability to lead cybersecurity units and develop plans for integrating and governing artificial intelligence.
The session's organizers aim to facilitate the exchange of experiences and best practices among participating countries, ultimately strengthening their capacities to respond to cyber threats.
Key points
- The training session focuses on strategic leadership in cybersecurity.
- The session addresses challenges related to artificial intelligence and emerging cyber threats.
- The event brings together experts and officials from various African countries.
