In an effort to combat the growing threat of cyberattacks against businesses, Ngee Ann Polytechnic (NP) has teamed up with AI cybersecurity firm Darktrace to provide students with the necessary skills to defend against criminal activities. This partnership aims to empower students to work alongside AI tools, enabling them to identify and monitor real-time network threats effectively.
The significance of the collaboration becomes evident when considering the alarming statistics surrounding cybercrime. According to research, the average cost of a data breach soared to a staggering $US4.35 million in 2022. Additionally, the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region faces a shortage of 2.1 million cybersecurity professionals, leaving more than half of the existing experts feeling that their companies are at moderate or extreme risk of cyberattacks.
As part of the collaboration, NP’s School of InfoComm Technology will offer the pioneering AI in Cybersecurity Specialization to an initial group of 80 students enrolled in the Diploma in Cybersecurity & Forensics program. These students will have the unique opportunity to take three electives that have been co-developed, co-delivered, and co-assessed in collaboration with Darktrace professionals.
Furthermore, participants will be able to attend masterclasses conducted by Darktrace representatives, gaining valuable insights into the practical applications of cyber-AI. They will also have access to Darktrace’s proprietary platform and the cutting-edge technology used by cyber analysts. By training with actual use-cases from Darktrace’s global operations, students will acquire hands-on experience, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills for real-world cybersecurity challenges.
The partnership between NP and Darktrace highlights the increasing importance of a human-AI partnership in the field of cybersecurity. While AI tools play a crucial role in enhancing security measures, human skills and expertise remain essential in maximizing the potential of these technologies and achieving optimal results for organizations. The collaboration also emphasizes the significance of continuous learning for both technical and non-technical individuals as the world transitions into the era of democratized AI.
Germaine Tan, Vice President of Cyber Risk Management at Darktrace, expressed enthusiasm about the Cyber AI Centre and its potential impact on the next generation of cyber talent. Tan emphasized that businesses recognize the significance of cyber-resilience and the disruptive nature of cyberattacks, making it crucial for students to understand the risks and value they can bring to the industry by working in the cybersecurity sphere.
The cybersecurity community, Tan noted, warmly welcomes young talent that can contribute to the ongoing conversation. The fresh perspective provided by young professionals, combined with the understanding of the resources and skills required to fill the cybersecurity gaps, will be instrumental as organizations embark on their cyber risk journeys. This program not only helps students comprehend what a career in cybersecurity entails but also introduces them to the technologies they will leverage in their roles.
Tan highlighted the symbiotic relationship between AI and human teams, emphasizing that AI takes on the heavy lifting, allowing humans to focus on higher-level thinking, decision-making, and strategy. As the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, students will need to collaborate effectively with AI tools to ensure robust defense against evolving cyber threats.
The partnership between Ngee Ann Polytechnic and Darktrace signifies a crucial step in bridging the cybersecurity skills gap and preparing the next generation for the complex challenges of the digital landscape.
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