According to the cyber threat overview by ANSSI, 40% of ransomware-type cyberattacks reported to them target SMEs. This threat, now affecting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as much as large corporations, has led to a growing demand for cybersecurity skills. In response, and as part of its partnership with Campus Cyber, the CNED is launching a new training program today: « Cybersecurity Assistant for SMEs and Local Authorities. »
A Strategic Partnership with Campus Cyber
Since 2022, the CNED has been part of the consortium led by Campus Cyber under the « Future Skills » call for expressions of interest (AMI-CMA). This project, called « Cybersecurity Talents TAL-CYB, » brings together 13 partners with the aim of attracting, guiding, and training people in large numbers. One key focus is developing new cybersecurity training programs, ranging from secondary school to PhD level, combining in-person and distance learning.
Campus Cyber aims to bring together key national, European, and international players in the field of cybersecurity. Its missions include raising awareness and promoting training: engaging the general public and businesses by making cybersecurity issues and best practices accessible, training various audiences to foster a broad increase in skills, and linking the industrial sector with educational institutions to tailor training to the real needs of the ecosystem.
The « Cybersecurity Assistant for SMEs » Training
Starting today, CNED is offering the « Cybersecurity Assistant for SMEs and Local Authorities » training, a 400-hour online course aimed at professionals with a non-specialist background and a qualification of high school diploma or associate degree level. This program is designed to provide practical skills tailored to the specific needs of small businesses and local authorities.
In addition, CNED plans to develop free cybersecurity awareness modules for high school and university students. These short courses (lasting 12 to 20 hours) aim to build a solid digital culture, raise awareness about security issues, and promote preventive actions.
Given the rising cyber threat, it is essential to make cybersecurity accessible to all businesses, regardless of their size. This training enables SMEs and local authorities, particularly those with populations under 10,000, to acquire a skill that has become crucial for their operations. By partnering with Campus Cyber as part of the “TAL-CYB” program, CNED contributes to strengthening the country’s digital resilience and preparing future professionals to face these complex challenges.
Olivier Guiard, Acting General Director of CNED
We will lose the cyberwar if we lack cyber-fighters. In France, as of 2023, we already face a shortage of more than 60,000 professionals in this field. Therefore, it is urgent to expand our training programs and make them much more accessible. Anyone who wants to upskill in cybersecurity should be able to do so, regardless of their starting level, geographic location, or financial means. This is the purpose of our support for CNED’s efforts.
Michel Van Den Berghe, President of Campus Cyber
Source: CNED, Press Release, October 22, 2024
