SANS Institute and CyberSafe Foundation Launch AI Security Fellowship for African Women in Cybersecurity — THE SANS INSTITUTE, LLC

Event summary

SANS Institute and CyberSafe Foundation awarded ten fellowships to women in cybersecurity across Africa, covering a four-course AI security curriculum and two GIAC certifications.
The fellowship runs from October 21, 2026, through July 30, 2027, and targets skills development in AI security to meet industry demand.
The program builds on a pilot model launched in 2025 through CyberGirls+, which sent ten alumni through SANS training and one GIAC certification.
The curriculum focuses on defending generative AI systems and using AI to enhance cybersecurity operations.
SANS Institute is supporting the scholarships for this cohort, with organizations able to register interest in funding future cohorts.

The big picture

The fellowship addresses a critical skills gap in cybersecurity across sub-Saharan Africa, where 63% of organizations report missing critical people and skills. This initiative aligns with the growing industry demand for AI security expertise, positioning SANS Institute and CyberSafe Foundation as leaders in workforce development for emerging technologies. The program's success could set a precedent for similar initiatives in other regions facing cybersecurity talent shortages.

What we're watching

Program Scaling: Whether SANS Institute and CyberSafe Foundation can secure funding to expand the fellowship program beyond the current cohort.
Industry Demand: The pace at which demand for AI security skills grows in Africa and globally, influencing the program's long-term relevance.
Impact Measurement: How the fellowship's outcomes will be measured and whether it successfully bridges the cybersecurity skills gap in sub-Saharan Africa.