October 26, 2017, FREDERICTON (GNB) – The provincial government has partnered with the Information and Communications Technology Council to motivate students to pursue education and careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics and cybersecurity.
Opportunities NB, CyberNB and the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development will work with the council to establish pathways for students interested in pursuing these fields in their post-secondary education and careers.
“A central focus of the CyberNB strategy is dedicated to skills and workforce development,” said Economic Development Minister Francine Landry, who is also minister responsible for Opportunities NB, which operates CyberNB. “With the global shortage of cybersecurity professionals, CyberNB’s strategy includes both short-term goals and long-term planning. We are pleased to partner with the council on this new initiative that will engage New Brunswick youth in these exciting, important sectors.”
Cybersecurity continues to be a global concern. Privacy breaches, compromised data systems, and unauthorized access to sensitive networks are daily threats around the world. This partnership will combine expertise, tools, research capabilities and networks to advance a shared goal of creating future generations of professionals in New Brunswick. The partners are working to explore, plan, and promote joint events that promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics and cybersecurity.
“We are delighted to partner with Opportunities NB, CyberNB and the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development as CyberTitan National Program Ambassadors,” said Sandra Saric, national director, CyberTitan and vice-president, talent innovation, at the Information and Communications Technology Council. “This partnership will allow us to continue to expand the knowledge and importance of cybersecurity skills for youth and pave the way for Canada to be a world leader in cybersecurity.”
Opportunities NB and the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development are now officially National Program Ambassadors for the council’s CyberTitan program, a cybersecurity education initiative for middle and high school students. It provides students immediate feedback on their level of cybersecurity comprehension and skill building. The partners will be working together to make CyberTitan available in both official languages, allowing more students and mentors to engage in the program.
“One of the objectives of our 10-year education plan is to improve learning in, and application of, science, trades and technology for all learners,” said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Brian Kenny. “We understand it is critical that learners are engaged in hands-on experiences that require them to investigate real-life needs and problems. Our vision is for New Brunswick to become a world leader in cybersecurity and to get there we need a generation of students that understands the importance of cybersecurity and has a knowledge level and understanding of it.”
CyberTitan teams will compete to earn an all-expense paid trip to the first CyberTitan National Finals where the best 10 teams across Canada will compete. The first national final will take place in Fredericton in May 2018 in conjunction with the National Cyber Skills Summit.
The Information and Communications Technology Council is a not-for-profit national centre of expertise for the digital economy. Through research, solutions and practical policy advice, it fosters innovative and globally-competitive Canadian industries empowered by a talented and diverse digital workforce.
Opportunities NB is a Crown corporation that seeks to attract and support opportunities to grow the economy and create jobs. It provides support services for businesses across the province. CyberNB is a Special Operating Agency of Opportunities NB and is implementing a plan to help create a safe and resilient internet for Canadians.
The mission for New Brunswick public schools is to have each student develop the attributes needed to be a lifelong learner, to achieve personal fulfillment and to contribute to a productive, just and democratic society.
MEDIA CONTACT(S):
Carolyn McCormack, communications, Opportunities NB, 506-453-8168.
Kelly Cormier, communications, Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, 506-444-5395.
Stephanie Wilson, director, strategic outreach, Information and Communications Technology Council, 613-850-1395.
