Several tertiary institutions have incorporated cyber security into their ICT or computer science
courses and there is a growing level of cyber security specialisation. Partnerships, including
mentoring, internships, work experience and apprenticeships, between tertiary education providers
and the private sector should be encouraged to ensure that courses and students are fit for
purpose. The government is funding three new ICT Graduate Schools to be established in Auckland,
Wellington and the South Island. These and other approaches across tertiary education may be one
way for tertiary providers to work together with business to help grow cyber security capability.
More can be done at the secondary school level to channel students into studying ICT (which should
incorporate cyber security), including appropriate qualifications, mentoring, work experience, careers
and further study advice. More can also be done to integrate “cyber hygiene” and safe use of ICT
into primary and secondary school lessons as a basic component of digital literacy for all students.
By the end of 2015, 90% of schools will be connected through the Ministry of Education-funded
Network for Learning (N4L) providing a safe, online learning environment for students and staff.
There is also scope to work with Connect Smart partners to support targeted cyber security courses,
such as practical on-the-job training or e-learning modules for employees, or the incorporation of
cyber security as a business risk for those on commerce or business management courses.
Research, largely driven by the private sector including tertiary institutions, is necessary for
New Zealand to develop its own innovation capability to deal with rapidly evolving cyber risks.
This includes research into adversary tactics, including test beds, modelling and malware analysis.
Such research can lead to the availability of improved defensive techniques and commercial
opportunities for New Zealand businesses as the national and global market grows for innovative
cyber security products and services.
There should be strong links between the research sector and the proposed CERT. It is also
important to strengthen New Zealand cyber security research capability so that it can tap into,
and leverage off, international research networks.
ACTIONS
OUTCOMES
WHO?*
ACTION 1
• Media and commentators recognise Connect Smart
advice as technically authoritative and trusted.
NCPO/CERT
• Traffic to the Connect Smart website, and social
media followers, increases.
Police
EXPAND
CONNECT SMART
ACTIVITIES AND
PARTNERSHIP
• A growing range of Connect Smart partners are
actively involved in promoting the Connect Smart
message to their staff and clients, through their own
media channels, and the Connect Smart website.
• A high-level cyber security summit reinforces
corporate commitment to cyber security
and establishes a platform for strengthened
cooperation.
• There is a regular flow of public Connect Smart
cyber security messages, including practical advice
and tips, through multiple channels and linked to
events and activities throughout the year.
• Evidence through Connect Smart public surveys and
research of growing cyber security awareness and
capability amongst New Zealanders and businesses.
• Increased number and range of Connect Smart
partners.
6
New Zealand’s Cyber Security Strategy Action Plan 2015
MoE
NCSC/GCSB
DIA
Private sector
Connect Smart
partners
- NetSafe
- NZITF