TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The government is retraining 450 people to serve as cybersecurity specialists, the Ministry of Digital Affairs said Saturday.

The trainees are expected to complete their courses by the end of the year, after which they can join the government’s reserve pool of cyber talent, per CNA. The initiative responds to a global shortage of 4.76 million cybersecurity professionals.

The Cabinet recently approved a 2025–2028 plan to expand cybersecurity staffing across government agencies and improve basic infrastructure. The plan also includes support for Taiwan’s cybersecurity industry and the development of an AI security network to build a safer digital society, the ministry said.

Central and local governments have budgeted for 1,533 cybersecurity positions, but only 939 are currently filled. Another 355 temporary or outsourced workers are employed, leaving a shortfall of 239 specialists.

Civil servants who complete the retraining may see their monthly salary increase by NT$4,000 (US$132), with an additional NT$3,000 for those who obtain a cybersecurity certificate. Those appointed to senior roles could see total increases of up to NT$9,000.