Cybersecurity initiative looks to propel ICT professionals in Africa and the Caribbean to new heights

Elizabeth Sloane, a Jamaican-founded global consulting firm that wholly owns the Elizabeth Sloane Institute of Technology (ESIT), has board-approved what is believed to be the largest-ever investment into cybersecurity education in Africa and the Caribbean with a US$14.6-million grant programme. 

The initiative will be launched through ESIT, which will allocate the funds through The Kusi P. Adu-Amankwah ‘Lex Stella’, the Lauryn C. Poyser, the Upskill Africa, and the C. Courtney Jackson Awards.

“This investment into cybersecurity education in Africa and the Caribbean could not come at a better time,” said Dr Modestus Okwu, dean of the ESIT.

“It will not only help the globe in its efforts against cybercrime but also provide opportunities for ICT professionals in Africa and the Caribbean to grow in an industry where they can make a difference in the world and advance their lives with high-paying jobs.” 

The last two years have seen cybersecurity attacks rise, adversely impacting the global economy. Leading industry research leader, Cybersecurity Ventures, estimates that damages from cybercrime will cost the globe US$7 billion in 2022. Additionally, as of 2022, there is still a global cybersecurity workforce gap of over US$2.72 million. Through ESIT, Elizabeth Sloane looks to close this gap while investing in cybersecurity professionals in Africa and the Caribbean. 

There is an untapped and talented workforce in Africa and the Caribbean, and with the high-level education and certifications offered through ESIT, ICT professionals on the continent and in the Caribbean will be able to take their skills to the next level while also helping the world at large.

“We see it critical to support the upskilling of ICT professionals on the continent and the Caribbean, mainly because we are feeling the negative effects of the skill gap,” stated Melanie Wynter, managing director of Elizabeth Sloane. 

Through the grants provided by ESIT, the goal is to upskill ICT professionals in Africa. Investing in education and giving financial access to those on the continent and the Caribbean will provide tremendous job opportunities for those who enrol, as well as add valuable reinforcements to the efforts against cyber attackers.