This initiative is part of Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the cybersecurity talent pool in Kenya’s booming technology sector.

Cyber Shujaa is a youth-oriented program established by a consortium of three organizations: Serianu Limited, United States International University-Africa (USIU-Africa), and the Kenya Bankers Association (KBA).

The program offers a unique blend of theoretical and practical training, delivered through a hybrid learning model that combines classroom instruction with one-on-one sessions and weekly mentorship.

The three-month program will target a mix of 70 undergraduate students and 30 graduate students with less than two years of professional experience.

The curriculum will cover eight critical cybersecurity domains: network security, application security, cloud security, incident response, security architecture, Internet of Things (IoT) security, and forensics.

“Cybersecurity is a cornerstone for secure operations across various industries, yet there’s a significant gap in skilled professionals,” said Catherine Muraga, Managing Director of Microsoft ADC. “This partnership with Cyber Shujaa exemplifies our commitment to establishing Kenya as a hub for cybersecurity talent.”

Equipping graduates with industry-recognized skills is a key focus of the program. Participants will be eligible to earn two Microsoft cybersecurity certificates, enhancing their employability in the cybersecurity job market.

“This timely collaboration with Microsoft will provide a much-needed boost to the cybersecurity industry, particularly across Africa,” said Igor Sakhnov, Corporate Vice President of Engineering at Microsoft, during the program launch.

Cyber Shujaa boasts a proven track record, having already trained over 500 individuals in cybersecurity and data protection with competency-based skills development programs.

This new partnership with Microsoft signifies a significant step forward in addressing the growing demand for cybersecurity expertise in Kenya and beyond.