In a move to combat the shortage of cybersecurity experts, Cybersafe Foundation, an Africa-based Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), has entered a strategic alliance with Check Point Software Technologies Ltd., a cybersecurity solutions provider.
The collaboration aims to empower young women in Africa by equipping them with essential cybersecurity skills and knowledge through the innovative CyberGirls program.
At the heart of this partnership lies Check Point’s SecureAcademy program, which offers cutting-edge cyber educational content. This collaboration will integrate SecureAcademy’s courses into Cybersafe Foundation’s CyberGirls initiative, a one-year free program meticulously designed to provide technical skills to women aged 18 to 28.
Cybersafe Foundation, dedicated to promoting cybersecurity awareness and ensuring digital safety, has tailored the CyberGirls program to bridge the gender gap in the industry. The initiative not only imparts hands-on training but also offers mentorship, certification preparation, and opportunities for internships and shadowing placements.
Through this program, Cybersafe Foundation aims to uplift women in underserved African communities, improving their socio-economic status while addressing the escalating threat of cybercrime.
Confidence Staveley, the Founder and Executive Director of Cybersafe Foundation, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are extremely proud of the impact our programs have had on the lives of many of our fellows, helping young women gain access to life-changing opportunities. Our partnership with Check Point will contribute immensely to our disruptive educational model by providing free quality cybersecurity training to the CyberGirls community.”
Pankaj Bhula, Regional Director, Africa at Check Point, reiterated the role of education in combating cybercrime. He stated, “Education is fundamental to combating the increasing volume of cybercrime both at home and abroad. Partnerships such as this one are key in closing the skills gap and helping to create a future employee pipeline in the cybersecurity sector. We are thrilled to be partnering with an organization that has had so much success in not only this aspect but also one which has made a real impact on the lives of their fellows through upskilling and education.”
Through SecureAcademy, Check Point is already collaborating with more than 160 academic partners, benefiting over 45,000 students in over 60 countries. This initiative addresses the staggering 3.5 million cybersecurity job vacancies existing globally. Check Point’s partnership with Cybersafe Foundation marks a significant step towards a more secure digital future, ensuring that the next generation of cybersecurity professionals is well-equipped to face the challenges of our ever-evolving digital landscape.
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