Apply Now: UNDP Cybersecurity Training for Youth in West and Central Africa (Fully Funded, 150 Slots)

Are you a young African with a passion for digital security and technology? The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with Give1Project and Concordia University, has launched the 2025 edition of the Regional Cybersecurity Training Programme.

This fully funded initiative will train 150 young people aged 18 to 35 from 24 countries in West and Central Africa. The programme equips participants with cybersecurity skills, practical training, mentorship, and career opportunities in the digital space.

Programme Background

The Cybersecurity Training Programme was first introduced in 2023 as a pilot involving 22 young people from West and Central Africa. Today, many of them are employed in tech firms or leading community projects in digital security. Based on its success, the programme has been expanded to 150 participants for the 2025 edition, focusing on practical training, digital inclusion, and leadership.

Training sessions will be delivered both online and in person. Special efforts are being made to support rural youth by setting up community hubs with computers and internet access. Additionally, five high-performing candidates per country will be selected as peer trainers and serve as local digital ambassadors.

Key Benefits

• Hands-on training in cybersecurity practices
• Mentorship from professionals in the tech industry
• Official certificate of completion
• Access to internships, jobs, or entrepreneurship opportunities
• Pathway to become a certified local trainer and tech ambassador

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be between 18 and 35 years old
• Be a citizen of one of the following 24 countries: 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
• Be enrolled in or have graduated from a university or technical institute
• Have basic knowledge or demonstrated interest in cybersecurity
• Be fluent in English or French
• Possess a valid national ID or passport

Selection Process

The application and selection process is divided into three phases:

First-Level Screening:
Applicants will be scored based on their motivation (25%), programming and IT knowledge (35%), prior experience (15%), education (10%), and extracurricular activities such as tech clubs or volunteering (15%).

Second-Level Screening:
Shortlisted applicants will undergo a technical assessment conducted by a panel of experts.

Third-Level Screening:
Top candidates from the second stage will be invited to a virtual interview. Final selections will be made based on performance.

How to Apply

To apply, complete the application form via the link below:

Apply here: https://bit.ly/4iYuT43
Application Deadline: 17 April 2025

Selected candidates will receive further communication regarding the training schedule and next steps.

About the Organisers

UNDP
The United Nations Development Programme works to eradicate poverty, reduce inequality, and promote sustainable development globally. This programme is part of its digital inclusion strategy in Africa. More at www.undp.org/africa/waca

Give1Project
An international NGO that empowers young leaders through education, innovation, and civic engagement. Learn more at www.give1project.net

Concordia University
Based in Montreal, Canada, Concordia is a globally respected institution that emphasizes innovation, research, and technology for social impact. Visit www.concordia.ca

Contact for Enquiries

• Nadine Rugwe, Governance and Peacebuilding Advisor, UNDP – nadine.rugwe@undp.org
• Christella Igiraneza, Youth Programme Specialist, UNDP – christella.igiraneza@undp.org

This cybersecurity training is a rare and valuable opportunity for youth across West and Central Africa to access global-standard tech education and career growth. If you’re passionate about digital security, now is the time to take action. Apply today and start your journey toward becoming a cybersecurity professional and leader in your community.