Apply for the Tech4Peace UNDP Digital Skills Courses 2025. A fully online cybersecurity and digital empowerment programme training 500 youth across West and Central Africa for free. Open to applicants aged 18–35.
Overview
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Give1Project, Concordia University, and the Open Society Foundations, has officially launched the 2025 Regional Cybersecurity Training Programme, a free digital skills initiative that aims to equip 500 young people across West and Central Africa with world-class digital and cybersecurity skills.
Following the success of the 2023 pilot—where 22 young participants went on to secure jobs, launch digital projects, or become trainers—the 2025 edition is significantly expanded in scale and ambition. It blends fully online learning, mentorship, hands-on cybersecurity training, and community-based digital capacity building.
This programme is not only about digital skills; it is a peacebuilding initiative using technology to strengthen resilience, reduce vulnerability to conflict recruitment, and open up employment pathways in the digital economy.
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About the Tech4Peace UNDP Digital Skills Programme
The Tech4Peace programme is designed to empower young people in fragile and conflict-affected settings by equipping them with practical cybersecurity skills and broader digital competencies.
Through a hybrid model combining online sessions with practical in-person components (where possible), the programme ensures equitable access for youth regardless of their location, including those in underserved communities.
The initiative integrates:
- Cybersecurity training
- Digital literacy and digital entrepreneurship
- Leadership development
- Peacebuilding and conflict transformation
- Exposure to gig economy opportunities
- Financial inclusion through fintech tools
Ultimately, the programme aims to strengthen economic resilience, foster peace, and reduce youth vulnerability to recruitment by armed actors.
Training Format
The 2025 programme is delivered in a cohort-style format, consisting of:
Virtual Theoretical Sessions
Participants join online training modules covering core cybersecurity topics, digital safety, online violence prevention, and cyber-attack response mechanisms.
Community-Based Practical Sessions
Where feasible, in-person labs will be set up to support hands-on learning. Community centres in rural areas will be equipped with:
- Computers
- Internet access
- Coaching support
- Cybersecurity resources
Trainer Development Component
Selected young participants will receive extra training to become Tech4Peace Ambassadors, enabling peer-to-peer learning and community outreach.
Key Benefits
1. High-Demand Digital Skills
Participants gain marketable skills in:
- Cybersecurity fundamentals
- Threat detection and prevention
- Safe data and online communication practices
- Digital literacy
- Tech-enabled peacebuilding
2. Certification
Upon successful completion, learners receive recognised certificates that enhance employability in the digital sector.
3. Mentorship
Participants benefit from direct mentorship from cybersecurity experts, regional tech leaders, and UNDP specialists.
4. Career Pathways
Graduates are positioned for:
- Internships
- Entry-level cybersecurity roles
- Digital freelancing and gig work
- Tech entrepreneurship
5. Leadership and Peacebuilding
Training includes modules on community leadership, enabling youth to:
- Promote social cohesion
- Prevent online violence
- Lead local digital peace projects
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be 18–35 years old
- Be a national of one of the 24 countries in West and Central Africa
- Be currently enrolled in university or already graduated
- Demonstrate strong interest in cybersecurity
- Have basic IT or digital literacy
- Be proficient in English or French
- Possess a valid national ID or passport
Participating Countries
Benin, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Cameroon, CAR, Chad, DRC, Republic of Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, São Tomé & Príncipe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo.
Screening and Selection Process
1. First-Level Screening (Scoring System)
Candidates are scored as follows:
- Motivation – 25%
- Skills – 35%
- Experience – 15%
- Education Level – 10%
- Extra-curricular Achievements – 15%
2. Technical Evaluation
Shortlisted candidates undergo a more advanced technical assessment.
3. Interviews
Top candidates are invited for interviews before final selection.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Visit the official application link:
https://bit.ly/4iYuT43 - Create an account and complete the application form.
- Upload the required documents:
- National ID or passport
- CV
- Proof of enrollment or graduation
- Submit your application before the deadline.
Successful applicants will be notified directly.
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For more opportunities like these, be sure to follow us on Facebook, join our WhatsApp Group and Channel, and connect with us on LinkedIn.
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Programme Outcomes
1. Digital & Cybersecurity Empowerment
Youth gain strong technical knowledge to secure digital systems, identify threats, and respond to online risks.
2. Enhanced Community Leadership
Participants learn how to apply digital tools for peacebuilding, building trust and resilience.
3. Economic Empowerment
Through training in digital entrepreneurship and gig platforms, young people can start online careers or create tech businesses.
4. Inclusive Peace Processes
Young men and women become ambassadors for peace, countering online hate, misinformation, and conflict triggers.
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | UNDP Tech4Peace Digital Skills Courses 2025 |
| Training Type | Fully Online + Hybrid Practical Sessions |
| Skills Covered | Cybersecurity, Digital Literacy, Leadership |
| Age Requirement | 18–35 |
| Eligible Regions | West & Central Africa |
| Certificate | Yes |
| Number of Participants | 500 youth |
| Application Deadline | 17 April 2025 |
| Cost | Free |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is this programme completely free?
Yes. The training, certification, mentorship, and digital resources are fully funded.
2. Do I need prior cybersecurity experience?
No. Foundational IT or digital literacy is enough.
3. What languages is the training offered in?
English and French.
4. Will participants receive a certificate?
Yes, all successful participants earn a recognised certificate.
5. Can I apply if I live outside West and Central Africa?
No, the programme is limited to youth from 24 eligible countries.
6. Is the training fully online?
It is primarily online, with optional in-person support hubs where applicable.
Final Thoughts
The UNDP Tech4Peace Digital Skills Courses 2025 offer young people across West and Central Africa a rare opportunity to gain globally relevant digital skills while contributing to peace, stability, and economic development in their communities. With free training, expert mentorship, and pathways to employment, this programme stands out as one of the region’s most impactful youth digital empowerment initiatives.
Applicants are encouraged to apply early and take advantage of this transformative opportunity.
Keywords
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