Ten teams will progress to live final this autumn
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Pictured: George Bathurst and Richard Coates, Cyberspark; Minister for Education Paul Givan; and Denny Vitty, Cyberspark
Cyberspark has announced the launch of first Cyber Battle competition, an initiative aimed at positioning Northern Ireland as a leader in cyber security, education and workforce development.
The competition consists of a series of bootcamps over the next six to eight months, culminating in a live final in the autumn. The competition is open to school pupils, students, apprentices or anyone aged between 14 and 24-years-old with an interest in learning about cyber security, teams will be challenged to defend against simulated cyber attacks, with 10 teams progressing to the final.
Cyber Battle marks the first phase in the Belfast company’s strategy to establish the region as a cyber hub and drive significant economic expansion. According to a 2023 report issued by Queen’s University, Belfast, the sector already contributes over £237 million to the local economy, signalling rapid growth potential.
“This initiative is all about showcasing Northern Ireland’s capabilities in cyber security while providing young people with the skills they need to succeed in the modern world,” said Richard Coates, chief executive officer, Cyberspark.
“Our aim is to highlight what Northern Ireland can achieve on a global stage, building on the strong foundation of our excellent education system. By enhancing and expanding opportunities, we can better prepare young people for careers in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries. Cyber security is constantly evolving, and by investing in skills development now, we can ensure Northern Ireland remains at the forefront of the sector.
“We’re very excited to be launching the UK and Ireland’s first Cyber Battle and I have no doubt that the talent on display will be immense. This competition is more than just a test of skills, it’s a practical training ground for the next generation of cyber security professionals, ensuring they are equipped to manage the challenges of a digital era.”
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