Forget the Talent Gap – It’s an Experience Gap

This article examines South Africa’s cybersecurity skills gap, citing surveys that show high vacancy rates and increased organizational risk, and recommends prioritizing practical, job-ready certifications (e.g., Security+, Azure/AWS), hands-on labs, internships and mentorships, inclusive programs to improve diversity, strong soft skills, curricula that adapt to cloud/IoT/AI threats, and strategies to reduce burnout and improve retention through supportive work environments and industry partnerships.