Empowering a Digital Future: Cybersecurity Training for Youth in West and Central Africa
In a world where digital threats loom larger than ever, cybersecurity is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Recognizing this, the Give1Project, Concordia University, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have launched the second cohort of the Regional Cybersecurity Training Programme—a transformative opportunity designed to equip 150 young people across West and Central Africa with practical skills, mentorship, and pathways into the digital workforce.
The application deadline is April 17, 2025, and if you’re a tech-savvy youth with a passion for cyber defense, this is your call to action.
Programme Format: Virtual Meets Reality
This isn’t just another online course.
The training blends virtual theoretical instruction with in-person practical sessions (where applicable), giving participants a well-rounded learning experience.
To ensure inclusivity, community access points will be established in remote areas—offering computers, internet access, and a supportive environment for those who might not otherwise have digital access.
Even better? In every participating country, five youth will be chosen as future trainers, fostering peer-to-peer learning and expanding the ripple effect of cybersecurity knowledge.
Benefits of Participating
Why should you consider applying? Here’s what you stand to gain:
- Hands-on cybersecurity skills you can apply in real-world scenarios
- Access to experienced mentors and tech industry leaders
- Networking opportunities across borders and sectors
- Certification upon successful completion
- Internship and employment opportunities in cybersecurity and the digital economy
- A chance to become a certified trainer and community ambassador
It’s not just training—it’s a launchpad.
Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to youth who meet the following criteria:
✅ Aged 18 to 35 years old
✅ A national of one of 24 countries in West and Central Africa
✅ Enrolled in or graduate of a university or technical institution
✅ Demonstrated interest and basic knowledge in cybersecurity
✅ Proficient in English or French
✅ Hold a valid ID or passport
Eligible Countries Include:
Benin, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo, Republic of Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo.
The Selection Process: How You’ll Be Chosen
Stage 1: First-Level Screening
Your application will be scored based on:
| Criteria | Weight |
|---|---|
| Motivation | 25% |
| Cyber Skills | 35% |
| Experience | 15% |
| Education Level | 10% |
| Extra-curricular | 15% |
Stage 2: Technical Assessment
Shortlisted candidates will undergo a deeper technical evaluation—testing core knowledge and readiness for advanced training.
Stage 3: Interviews
Top-scoring candidates will be invited for interviews before final selections are announced.
Why This Training Matters
As the digital transformation accelerates across Africa, so do the risks of cyberattacks, data breaches, and online threats. Yet, few countries in the region have enough qualified professionals to safeguard their infrastructure.
This training addresses that gap by:
- Fostering digital literacy in underserved communities
- Promoting youth employment in emerging tech sectors
- Creating local trainers to expand community resilience
It’s not just about coding—it’s about creating digital guardians for Africa’s future.
The People Behind the Programme
Give1Project
Dedicated to nurturing leadership among youth, Give1Project engages young people across the globe in building stronger communities through education, health, civic engagement, and technology.
🌐 www.give1project.net
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
UNDP works across 170+ countries to reduce poverty, empower nations, and build sustainable futures. In West and Central Africa, its focus includes digital innovation, youth employment, and governance.
🌐 www.undp.org/africa/waca
Final Call: Shape Your Cyber Future
Whether you’re a self-taught coder, a tech student with big dreams, or someone from a rural area eager to break into the digital world—this programme is your gateway to a career in cybersecurity.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn, connect, and lead.
🚀 Apply Now and be the change-maker your community needs.
