As cyberattacks surge globally, including a 44% increase in 2024 and a 30-40% spike in phishing scams across South Africa, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) is stepping into the spotlight with a transformative initiative to address the nation’s critical cybersecurity skills gap.
Supported by a $500,000 (approximately R9.2 million) grant from Google.org, UJ’s Johannesburg Business School (JBS) will expand its cybersecurity training programmes, equipping over 100 students with cutting-edge skills to protect South Africa’s digital infrastructure.
Professor Stella Bvuma, the Director of the School of Consumer Intelligence and Information Systems at UJ and JBS’s Diversity Equity Inclusion champion explains the escalating threats, such as the recent breaches, including the 2023 MOVEit incident, that have exposed vulnerabilities in South Africa’s public and private sectors.
“Globally, cybercrime costs are projected to reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, with small businesses and critical infrastructure at heightened risk. South Africa mirrors a global crisis, with Europe alone facing an 883,000-person cybersecurity talent deficit. This grant positions UJ to, through a short learning programme, directly tackle this gap through hands-on training and industry partnerships,” she said.
The Short Learning Programme (NQF Level 5) blends theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, including AI-driven threat detection and intelligent systems development. Participants earn a UJ Certificate of Competence, recognised nationally.
Prof Bvuma highlighted that the grant supports hiring expert trainers, developing advanced modules, and community engagement initiatives, such as mentorship and hackathons adding that marginalised youth and unemployed graduates will gain access to high-demand careers.
“This initiative isn’t just about education, but more about national resilience. By empowering our youth, we safeguard critical infrastructure and fuel economic growth in a digitised world. Collaborating with Google.org and Virtual Routes, a nonprofit specialising in cybersecurity policy, the programme integrates internships and mentorship from global professionals, ensuring students tackle real-world challenges,” said Prof Bvuma.
Dr Wieland Holfelder, Google Cloud Regional CTO said that AI and quantum computing redefine both opportunities and risks. “This programme bridges the talent gap while defending vulnerable organisations, a model we’re proud to scale across EMEA.”
Dr Holfelder sentiments were echoed by Virtual Routes Co-Director, James Shires, stating tailored, hands-on education is key to global cybersecurity readiness. “UJ’s programme sets a benchmark for community-driven innovation.”
About the Johannesburg Business School:
The Johannesburg Business School (JBS) is a faculty of the University of Johannesburg (UJ) that provides relevant, practical knowledge and skills. Our students experience an innovative teaching style that is authentically African and geared to the complex environment of the digital era.
The JBS Centre for Entrepreneurship (JBSCE) provides integrated entrepreneurial development support to build a culture of entrepreneurship and develop start-ups and existing businesses for increased participation in the economy.
