DPSA: Comprehensive Training Programme for DISOs Launched

• The DPSA is establishing a comprehensive training programme for Departmental Information Security Officers (DISOs) to equip them with knowledge, skills, and competencies required to protect government information assets.
• The programme will provide a structured learning pathway for DISOs to establish, implement, monitor, and continuously improve departmental information security programmes aligned with government requirements, cyber security best practices, and international standards.
• Interested parties have until 11am on 27 August to submit their proposals for the development and delivery of the training programme.

The DPSA notes that the Directive on Public Service Information Security requires departments to appoint DISOs to ensure effective information security capabilities.

The Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) has announced plans to establish a comprehensive training programme for Departmental Information Security Officers (DISOs). This initiative aims to equip current and prospective DISOs with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to protect government information assets. The DPSA notes that the Directive on Public Service Information Security requires departments to appoint DISOs to ensure effective information security capabilities. To support this directive, the DPSA intends to develop a customised training programme for DISOs, which will include training on emerging security trends, best practices, and essential technologies. Interested parties have until 11am on 27 August to submit their proposals for the development and delivery of the training programme.

The DPSA's initiative is in line with the Directive on Public Service Information Security, which mandates departments to establish and maintain effective information security capabilities. The directive requires DISOs to play a critical role in protecting government information assets, providing assurance in the effectiveness of information security controls, managing cyber risks, promoting information security awareness, and ensuring compliance with applicable legislation, policies, and standards. To achieve this, the DPSA is developing a training programme that will provide a structured learning pathway for DISOs to establish, implement, monitor, and continuously improve departmental information security programmes aligned with government requirements, cyber security best practices, and international standards.

The DPSA's training programme is crucial for ensuring the effective protection of government information assets. With the increasing threat of cyber attacks, it is essential that DISOs have the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies to execute their responsibilities effectively. The programme will also help departments comply with applicable legislation, policies, and standards, which is critical for maintaining public trust and confidence in the government's ability to protect sensitive information. Furthermore, the programme will provide practical insights into information security best practices, enabling DISOs to make informed decisions about information security measures within their departments.

Lawyers advising government departments on information security should note that the DPSA is establishing a comprehensive training programme for Departmental Information Security Officers (DISOs) to equip them with knowledge, skills and competencies required to protect government information assets and ensure compliance with applicable legislation, policies and standards.

Source: Original reporting via eTenders Portal