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Opportunity for Young Cybersecurity Enthusiasts in West and Central Africa: Apply for the 2025 Regional Cybersecurity Training Program
A transformative opportunity is on the horizon for aspiring cybersecurity professionals across West and Central Africa. The Give1Project, in partnership with Concordia University and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is launching the second edition of the Regional Cybersecurity Training Program. This initiative is designed to identify and train 150 talented young individuals with a passion for cybersecurity.
Following the success of its 2023 pilot phase—which equipped 22 young participants with the tools to launch careers or lead digital transformation initiatives—the program is significantly expanding in 2025. The new cohort will benefit from enhanced training, broader outreach, and increased community impact.
Program Structure
The training is structured to ensure both accessibility and practical impact. It will be delivered in a hybrid format that combines online theoretical instruction with hands-on, in-person sessions (where feasible). Special provisions are being made to support youth from underserved and remote areas, including access to community centers equipped with computers and internet connectivity. This ensures equitable participation across socio-economic backgrounds.
Moreover, in each participating country, five participants will be selected to undergo additional training to become peer educators. These individuals will act as future trainers, helping to expand local knowledge and support digital capacity-building efforts in their communities.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for this program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be between 18 and 35 years of age.
- Hold citizenship in one of the 24 countries located within West or Central Africa.
- Be enrolled in, or a graduate of, a recognized university or technical institution.
- Possess a genuine interest in cybersecurity, along with basic knowledge or experience in the field.
- Demonstrate the potential to grow either professionally or as a cybersecurity entrepreneur.
- Be fluent in either English or French.
- Have a valid national ID card or passport.
Selection Process
The selection process is structured in three key stages:
- Preliminary Screening: Applicants who meet the basic eligibility criteria will be evaluated based on:
- Motivation (25%) – A demonstration of strong interest and passion for cybersecurity.
- Skills (35%) – Proficiency in IT, programming, or cybersecurity-related tools.
- Experience (15%) – Involvement in cybersecurity projects, challenges, or competitions.
- Education (10%) – Educational background, especially in technical or IT fields.
- Extra-curricular Activities (15%) – Involvement in leadership roles, tech communities, or relevant initiatives.
- Technical Evaluation: Shortlisted applicants will undergo a more detailed technical assessment, conducted by the program’s evaluation committee.
- Interviews: Finalists from the technical stage will be invited to participate in interviews. This final round will help determine the most suitable candidates for the program.
What Participants Will Gain
Selected participants will benefit from:
- Intensive training in core cybersecurity concepts and practices.
- Mentorship from leading experts in the digital and cybersecurity sectors.
- A recognized certification upon successful completion.
- Career advancement opportunities including internships, jobs, or digital entrepreneurship.
- The chance to serve as a local trainer, empowering others and building community resilience.
Application Deadline: April 17, 2025
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply before the deadline to secure their spot in this prestigious program.
[Click here to submit your application]
