Graduated from the first batch of Cyber Excellence Academy with Take Note IT Solutions CEO and Founder Mamela Luthuli.
This year, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) hosted 10 interns from last year's cohort of 25 Cyber Excellence Academy students.
Established last year by IT security solutions provider Take Note IT Solutions in collaboration with CSIR, the academy aims to equip young South Africans with advanced cyber security skills.
Through a comprehensive curriculum and hands-on training, the academy provides students from disadvantaged backgrounds with the industry-relevant knowledge, skills, and expertise they need to succeed in the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity. .
This six-month program was introduced with the support of the Media, Information and Communication Technology Sector Education and Training Authority (MICT SETA) and the University of Venda.
The first program was successfully completed and culminated in a recent graduation ceremony held at the CSIR International Conference Center in Pretoria. Ten outstanding graduates of the Academy have been selected to successfully transition into roles within CSIR's Cyber Security Division next year.
“By fostering a deep understanding of cybersecurity principles, strategies, and best practices, the Academy will create a new generation of highly skilled cybersecurity employees who can proactively protect their organizations from evolving cyber threats. ,” said Dr Jabu Mtsweni, director of the institute. CSIR Information and Cyber Security Center.
“Newly placed students will be primarily assigned to roles within CSIR’s Center for Information and Cybersecurity and will work primarily as cybersecurity analysts. Each student will be assigned a role that corresponds to the expertise they have gained throughout the program. At the same time, it fulfills its role in line with the objectives of the CSIR.”
Mamela Luthuli, CEO and founder of Take Note IT Solutions, tells ITWeb that collaboration with the cyber security firm, CSIR, University of Venda and MICT SETA contributed to the success of the Cyber Excellence Academy.
MICT SETA is a strategic partner that has provided significant funding to support the Academy's efforts, she added.
“Its support, both financial and operational, plays a vital role in advancing the Academy’s work and highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in promoting youth empowerment and fostering economic growth. .
“Additionally, Take Note IT Solutions played a key role in contributing to the MICT SETA Cyber Analyst Vocational Qualification. Take Note was the first MICT SETA Strategy to pilot a Cyber Analyst program in SA. We are a global partner and are committed to advancing cybersecurity education and training,” said Luthuli.
For recruitment in 2024, MICT SETA has allocated 35 open positions for young people to receive free cyber security training at the Cyber Excellence Academy.
“This program remains committed to empowering its participants, providing comprehensive training, mentorship and exposure to enhance their skills and future potential,” said MICT SETA CEO Matome Madibana commented.
“Participants will not only gain technical expertise, but will develop soft skills, financial literacy, and engage in activities that promote mental resilience.”
This year's initiative reflects the Academy's and MICT SETA's commitment to gender diversity and inclusion in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, with a focus on admitting more female students. is.
“By empowering young women, we aim to challenge traditional norms and foster more balanced representation within the cybersecurity industry. Our aim is to It’s about reframing the narrative, removing barriers, and fostering an inclusive environment that leads to success for all individuals,” Luthuli said.
The Cyber Excellence Academy says it is offering job opportunities within its partner ecosystem to 15 other graduates.
Youth interested in applying to the Class of 2024 can apply here.
