Microsoft Africa Development Centre (ADC) and Cyber Shujaa are partnering to train 100 Kenyans in cybersecurity. This is part of the ADC’s plan to improve the number of cybersecurity professionals in the tech sector.
The three-month program will accept 70 undergraduate and 30 graduate students with less than two years of experience. They will be trained in eight cybersecurity modules through a mix of classroom instruction and mentorship.
Managing Director of Microsoft ADC,Catherine Muraga said the program is one of many ADC initiatives to improve tech skills in Kenya. Cybersecurity is important but there is a lack of people with these skills. This program, along with Microsoft ADC, will help Kenya become a hub for cybersecurity professionals. Participants will receive two Microsoft cybersecurity certificates.
Cyber Shujaa is a group of Serianu Limited, USIU-Africa, and the Kenya Bankers Association. It trains young people in cybersecurity and data protection. Over 500 people have already been trained.
Dr. Lola Omole-Odubekun, Interim Vice-Chancellor of USIU-Africa, likes that this program aligns with the university’s goals. The university wants to develop programs that meet the needs of the 21st century. This program is a good example. Working with Microsoft ADC and others allows them to offer specialized training to address the cybersecurity skills gap.
William Makatiani, CEO of Serianu, said the Cyber Immersion Program started in 2016 with just 8 students. By 2021, they trained students from 67 universities nationwide. They are excited to have Microsoft ADC as a partner to help them give Kenyan women and men more opportunities in IT and cybersecurity.
Mr Makatiani also said one of their goals is to get more young people jobs in cybersecurity and data protection. “Over 745 people have been placed in jobs after completing their training. This program with Microsoft ADC will help them grow their network and provide skills needed in the industry.”
A recent analysis by Kaspersky Cybersecurity said 41% of companies in the world do not have enough cybersecurity professionals. “There is a worldwide shortage of 4 million cybersecurity professionals.”
According to the Microsoft Digital Defence Report 2023, cyber threats are getting worse. The report says strong partnerships and new technology are needed to fight these threats.
Igor Sakhnov, Corporate Vice President, Engineering at Microsoft, said this partnership is important and will help the cybersecurity industry in Africa.
The program will cover eight areas: network security, application security, cloud security, incident response, security architecture, IoT security, and forensics.
This cybersecurity program is one of many Microsoft ADC initiatives to improve skills in the tech sector. Other initiatives include the faculty upskilling programme, Game of Learners, and the Women Inspiring and Nurturing Women (WINS) mentorship programme.