Request for Applications: Youth Cybersecurity Training in West and Central Africa
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Concordia University, and the Give1Project are looking for 150 youth from West and Central Africa to participate in the second cohort of the Regional Cybersecurity Training program.
The program, which began in 2023 with a trial group of 22 young people, is now growing to teach 150 new cybersecurity enthusiasts by 2025. Many of these individuals are currently working or in charge of digital activities.
Format
A cohort approach will be used to offer the training, which will combine online theoretical sessions with in-person practical sessions (where applicable).
In some regions, facilities will be set up so that youth from underserved and rural areas can use computers and the internet to fully engage in online coaching and training sessions.
Five youth will also be selected as future trainers in each country to support peer-to-peer learning and capacity building in their communities.
Benefits
- Practical skills in cybersecurity and access to mentorship
- Exposure to industry experts and networking opportunities
- Certification upon successful completion
- Pathways to internships, employment, and entrepreneurship in the digital economy
- Opportunity to become a trainer and community ambassador
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible to apply, applicants must:
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Be a national of one of the 24 countries in West and Central Africa[1]
- Be currently enrolled in or have graduated from a university or technical institution
- Demonstrate interest and foundational knowledge in cybersecurity and the potential to grow professionally or as an entrepreneur in the field
- Be proficient in English or French
- Have a valid identification document or passport
Screening Process
First-Level Screening
Candidates who meet the minimum requirements of the programme will be shortlisted for the next phase. The scoring breakdown will be as follows:
- Motivation (Weight: 25%): Assess for genuine interest and enthusiasm.
- Skills (Weight: 35%): Focus on IT, programming, and cybersecurity knowledge.
- Experience (Weight: 15%): Any hands-on cybersecurity experience or relevant competitions.
- Education Level (Weight: 10%): Preference for candidates with technical education in IT.
- Extra-curricular (Weight: 15%): Bonus points for leadership and participation in events.
Second-Level Screening: Technical Assessment
Candidates who pass the first screening stage will undergo a deeper technical evaluation following a notification from the technical evaluation committee.
Third-Stage Screening: Interviews
Following the successful completion of the first and second stages, candidates with the highest scores will be invited for a round of interviews before being notified of the final selection.
To Apply
Visit: https://bit.ly/4iYuT43
Deadline: All applications must be submitted on or before 17 April 2025.
Please note: The training start date will be communicated directly to successful applicants.
