Rwanda is set to establish a new institution dedicated to training in cybersecurity and technology-related fields, according to the Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire.
The upcoming Cyber Academy is expected to provide education on digital security and the application of technology across various sectors.
The minister revealed the plans while addressing Rwanda's Parliament, specifically the Governance, Gender, and Social Affairs Committee, in response to questions related to the 2023-2024 performance report of the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB).
Minister Ingabire confirmed that the academy will be operational before the end of 2025.
Boosting digital skills in Rwanda
The minister emphasized that the academy will play a crucial role in enhancing Rwandans' knowledge and skills in technology use.
"We are setting up the Cyber Academy, which will offer courses in cybersecurity. The goal is to equip young people with the knowledge to develop digital solutions while ensuring their security and contributing to national strategies," she stated.
"The academy will be launched this year, and we will collaborate with various partners to ensure the successful delivery of its programmes in Rwanda," she added.
Minister Ingabire also provided an update on the country's digital progress, revealing that 22% of Rwandans currently use digital services, despite internet coverage reaching 96% of inhabited areas and 75% of the entire national territory.
She reaffirmed the government's target of achieving 100% internet coverage across the country by 2029.
Additionally, the number of Rwandan households with fixed internet connections has increased from 7,501 to 79,107, reflecting a significant improvement in digital connectivity.
However, the minister acknowledged that challenges remain, including the high cost of internet services, expensive digital devices, and limited digital literacy among the population.
Despite these obstacles, Minister Ingabire highlighted ongoing initiatives to increase digital adoption, stating that 68.5% of Rwandans aged 10 and above now possess basic digital skills. The government continues to invest in awareness campaigns to ensure that all citizens can independently access and utilize online services.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/science-technology/article/rwanda-to-establish-cybersecurity-training-academy
