Urgent Call for Vietnam's Digital Defense: Requirements for 700,000 Skilled Cyber Experts Immediate
Fast-paced Digitalization Puts Vietnam's Cyber Security in Jeopardy
In an increasingly digital world, Vietnam is grappling with an alarming shortage of cyber security professionals, amounting to an estimated 700,000 expert positions. Rapidly advancing digital transformation and rising cyber threats are further straining the already limited supply of qualified professionals.
To counter this escalating crisis, both government and private sectors are spearheading initiatives to foster local talent and bolster cyber security infrastructure. The urgency was heightened after recent cyber attacks, highlighting the critical need to fill the vast chasm in IT expertise.
The digital economy in Vietnam is soaring, spawning a wealth of tech companies and digital banking systems. However, the all-encompassing digital revolution has also exposed a looming vulnerability: the lack of skilled cybersecurity professionals needed to safeguard the nation's progress. Nguyen Huy Dung, Vietnam's Deputy Minister of Information and Communications, encapsulated the predicament, stating, "Our digital footprint is expanding at a pace we cannot secure."
One of the root causes lies in the education sector, with a dearth of specialized educational programs and industry-focused training opportunities in cybersecurity. To address this, Tran Van Minh, CEO of a leading Vietnamese tech firm, advocated a blend of academic and practical training to swiftly bridge the skills gap.
Key initiatives to combat the shortage of cybersecurity experts include promoting collaborative efforts between academia and industry, enhancing policy measures, expanding training programs, and retaining domestic talent. Vu Duc Dam, Vietnam's Minister of Science and Technology, underlined the importance of public-private partnerships in propelling the nation's cybersecurity competencies.
Moreover, strengthening organizational readiness and adhering to higher security standards—especially for critical sectors like energy, finance, and healthcare—have become essential in the fight against the undulating threat of cyber attacks.
While the cybersecurity challenge in Vietnam can be daunting, the combined efforts of government, academia, and industry offer a promising future. With prudent planning, targeted investment in training, and collaborative efforts, Vietnam can leverage this challenge as an opportunity to build a robust cybersecurity ecosystem, ensuring a secure and thriving digital future.
An encyclopedia entry on cybersecurity in Vietnam might note the pressing need to enhance cybersecurity education and infrastructure due to the widening gap in IT expertise, as the digital revolution propels the nation's economy and exposes vulnerabilities. This is a critical endeavor since the dearth of skilled cybersecurity professionals could jeopardize Vietnam's progress in sectors like energy, finance, and healthcare.
