Information, communication, and technology professionals from Seychelles are currently engaged in an essential two-day training program focused on cybersecurity, cybercrime, and critical infrastructure protection. Held at the Military Training & Support Centre in Perseverance, this training is being conducted by the United States Secret Service, known for its extensive experience and resources in tackling cyber threats and safeguarding critical infrastructure. The training aims to enhance the capabilities of local professionals in dealing with emerging cyber threats and improving their cybersecurity practices.
Michael Burgin, the U.S. Secret Service Country Attache, has highlighted the importance of this training by emphasizing the global scale of the expertise being shared. According to Burgin, the Secret Service is providing valuable insights into managing transnational cybercrime and protecting critical infrastructure, drawing from its experience in handling similar issues across various components in the U.S. This exchange of knowledge is expected to be highly beneficial for Seychelles as it adapts these strategies to its unique context.
The initiative is particularly timely as Seychelles advances its digital government services. Minister for Internal Affairs, Errol Fonseka, pointed out that as the country transitions to more digital platforms, ensuring robust cybersecurity measures is crucial. Fonseka stressed that strengthening efforts to protect cyberspace and virtual borders against threats is essential for a smooth and secure digital transition. The training is designed to address these needs and prepare Seychelles to effectively manage and mitigate potential cyber threats.
Participants in the training include representatives from key sectors such as banking, the Department of Information Communications Technology (DICT), the Seychelles Revenue Commission (SRC), the Seychelles Police Force, and the Department of Immigration. This diverse group underscores the comprehensive nature of the training, aimed at building a strong cybersecurity framework across multiple critical sectors in Seychelles. By equipping professionals from these sectors with advanced knowledge and skills, the program seeks to fortify the nation’s overall cybersecurity posture and ensure a secure digital environment for its citizens.
