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SANCS 2026 Cyber Talent Accelerator – Application Requirements Advisory

Cyber Security Institute (CSI)

The SA-Netherlands Cyber Talent Accelerator is an full time advanced 6-month cyber security training and work readiness program sponsored by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in South Africa and presented by the Cyber Security Institute.
The Talent Accelerator provides fully sponsored 20 student internships to recent graduates of the South Africa-Netherlands Cyber Security School offered by the Hague Centre for Strategic Studies and Stellenbosch University.
The CTA offers students a comprehensive 6-month certification in cyber security accredited by the Cape Peninsula University of Technology.

The Southern Africa-Netherlands Cyber Security Talent Accelerator is a fully sponsored, six month full time program. 20 candidates are placed on the program which includes the Certificate in Cyber Security (CSI and CPUT), the workplace immersion program, professional development and the cyber range. The Talent Accelerator is presented fully online and runs from June to the end of November 2026.

Students who wish to apply for the SANCS 2026 Cyber Talent Accelerator are advised that they will need to meet all of  the following requirements:

  1. Only students who have successfully completed the full Southern Africa Netherlands Cyber Security School 2026 program will be eligible.
  2. Students who obtained the certificates for both the academic program and for completing in a Challenge will be given preference.
  3. The SANCS 2026 CTA is only open to citizens of SADC Countries who are also resident in SADC.
  4. The CTA is a full time 6-month program. Only candidates who are able to commit to a full-time program for the full duration of the program will be considered.
  5. Candidates must have the requisite computing infrastructure ie a computer with an up to date operating system, MS Office and a stable internet connection with unlimited data.
  6. Applicant must not be in full time employment or full time tertiary study.
  7. Applicants must have completed schooling at the matriculation level.
  8. Applicants must attend all online classes.
  9. Applicants will be required to sign a contract.
  10. The Call for Applications for the 2026 Cyber Talent Accelerator will be made via LinkedIn and email.
  11. If you have not received an email from CSI by 20 May 2026 please consider your application unsuccessful.
  12. Candidates who are invited for an interview will be contacted via email. An interview invitation is not an indication that you will receive a place on the SANCS Talent Accelerator.
  13. APPLICATIONS CLOSE ON 2 MAY 2026
  14. Please do not contact individual members of the SANCS team or the Cyber Security Institute directly asking for further details. All information will be released publicly, and no individual communication will be entered into for ethical reasons.

SANCS 2026 Cyber Security Talent Accelerator Program

APPLICATION PROCEDURE
This application form must be completed in full by all students who are applying for the 2026 Cyber Talent Accelerator Program presented by the Cyber Security Institute (CSI) and funded by the Kingdom of the Netherlands Embassy in South Africa. For more information on the SANCS Cyber Talent Accelerator please go to https://cybersecurityinstitute.co.za/talent-accelerator/

SUBMISSION PROCESS Once you have completed the application form please select the submit button. Incomplete application forms will not be considered. 

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
– Curriculum Vitae – please attach your CV. Pleasure ensure that your CV is saved with your name as the file name (name and surname) so that it can be matched to your application form correctly. Due to a large volume of applications, we will not consider applications where the CV cannot be matched.

COURSE CURRICULUM
Certificate in Cyber Security
(Accredited and issued by Cape Peninsula University of Technology)
A. Cybercrime ecosystem
• Cybercrime (detailed typology)
• Cyber actors
• Cyber vectors
• Threat Intelligence
B. Cryptography
• Encryption (symmetric/asymmetric)
• Secure protocols
• Digital signatures
• Hashing
• Virtual currencies
C. IT and Coding
• Scripting (Python)
• Network and Cloud computing
• Artificial Intelligence and quantum Computing
D. Cyber Governance, Risk and Compliance
• Cyber security frameworks and standards (ISO/IEC 27001, NIST)
• Controls (CIS)
• Risk assessment and management
• Incident Response

Opportunity to participate in:
  • Work immersive program
  • Cyber simulation program

PROGRAM DURATION 
This program is commencing in June 2026 for a duration of six months ending 30 November 2026. 
APPLICATION PROCEDURE

This application form must be completed in full by all students who are applying for the 2025 Cyber Talent Accelerator Program presented by the Cyber Security Institute (CSI) and funded by the Kingdom of the Netherlands Embassy in South Africa.

Applications close at 12 pm SAST on 13 May. No late applications will be considered.

SUBMISSION PROCESS
Once you have completed the application form please select the submit button. Incomplete application forms will not be considered.

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
– Curriculum Vitae – please attach your CV. Pleasure ensure that your CV is saved as your name (name and surname) so that it can be matched to your application form correctly. Due to a large volume of applications, we will not consider applications where the CV cannot be matched.

COURSE CURRICULUM
Certificate in Cyber Security
(Accredited and issued by Cape Peninsula University of Technology)
A. Cybercrime ecosystem
• Cybercrime (detailed typology)
• Cyber actors
• Cyber vectors
• Threat Intelligence
B. Cryptography
• Encryption (symmetric/asymmetric)
• Secure protocols
• Digital signatures
• Hashing
• Virtual currencies
C. IT and Coding
• Scripting (Python)
• Network and Cloud computing
• Artificial Intelligence and quantum Computing
D. Cyber Governance, Risk and Compliance
• Cyber security frameworks and standards (ISO/IEC 27001, NIST)
• Controls (CIS)
• Risk assessment and management
• Incident Response

Opportunity to participate in:

  • Work immersive program
  • Cyber simulation program


PROGRAM DURATION 
This program is commencing in June 2025 for a duration of six months ending 30 November 2025.





Create a short (1 minute) video in which you present yourself, highlight your interest in cyber security and why you would want to be part of this course. Upload to any social media platform and upload the link here.

Declaration*

The undersigned, declare that all the particulars supplied by me in this form are true, complete and correct. I accept that incorrect or misleading information could lead to the cancellation of this application. I further undertake: 1. to comply with all the rules and regulations of the CSI Academy, including any amendments thereof as published from time to time and to acquaint myself with all the provisions of such amendments. 2. to notify CSI of any change pertaining to cancellation or change in contact details. 3. that I will not hold the CSI Academy liable nor make any claim against the institution for any compensation and / or any expenses incurred, or damages suffered as a result or in respect of any injury to me or illness or my death, irrespective of whether any such damages, injury or death may have been attributable to any degree of negligence on the part of the Institution or one or more of its employees or other person for whose actions it might, but for this undertaking, have been responsible. 4. that I will remain liable for the payment of all fees in full if I abandon or change my course at any time and accept that no cancellation or reduction of fees will be considered except where unforeseen circumstances or lack of sufficient enrolments may necessitate the cancellation of a course.



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Did you successfully complete the 2026 SANCS Cyber Security School?*
Did you complete a 2026 SANCS Challenge Exercise?*
Are you currently employed?*
Are you currently registered for tertiary studies - either higher education or vocational training?*
Do you hold a tertiary qualification? (post-school qualification). If so select the option below. If you hold more than one please select your highest qualification*
Do you have consistent access to a personal computer/laptop with an up to date operating system and a stable internet connection with unrestricted data?*
Do you have a criminal record?*
Are there currently any criminal charges or proceedings against you?*
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Tag CSI using the following social media channels: Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram and X

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Certificate in Cyber Security

Course Details

This practical, hands-on course focuses on establishing a foundation in Cyber Security by introducing candidates to cyber-crime, attack methods, and managing cyber risks.

Mode of Offering: The course is presented via facilitated    e-learning, utilising an e-learning platform and virtual classes.

Intended Audience:

This course is designed for individuals embarking on a career in Cyber Security or performing security functions.

Requirements

Applicants should have a Matric certificate or equivalent qualification with suitable IT knowledge, Internet access, and a PC or laptop on which applications can be installed and services accessed.

Costs:

R12,500 all inclusive

Duration:

5-months

Intake:

We have two main intakes, one at the end of February and another at the end of June. Additional intakes may be scheduled depending on application volumes and requirements.

Course Overview:
Cyber-crime‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎
  • Introduction to cyber-crime
  • Cyber-attack methods (e.g., ransomware, sextortion, email fraud)
  • Cyber criminology (actors behind the attacks, criminal networks, state-sponsored entities, etc.)
  • Tracing the online trail
  • Dark web (criminal forums)
  • Case studies of attacks in SA & Global.
  • Crime-as-a-Service
  • Internet of (Criminal) Things.
Practical Cryptography
  • Introduction to cryptography.
  • Encryption and Decryption.
  • Hash functions
  • Blockchain
  • Virtual Currencies
  • Digital signatures
  • Digital certificates
  • Cryptographic Protocols (SSL, SSH, etc.)
Course Overview:
Cyber Governance, Risk & Compliance
  • Overview of cyber governance, risk, and compliance
  • POPIA & GDPR
  • Data Privacy
  • Policies in action
  • NIST, ISO27001
  • Controls
  • Planning for contingencies
  • Developing the security program
  • Risk analysis and management
Cyber Intelligence‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎
  • Introduction to Cyber Intelligence
  • Attack Tools
  • Attack process
  • Reconnaissance and Footprinting
  • OSINT services and tools
  • Threat and vulnerability feeds and assessments
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Cyber Investigations

Course Details

This course is suitable for investigators and investigation teams within the corporate environment and public sectors who are required to track online trails or utilise tools to solve online crimes. It is also intended for professionals and investigative journalists involved in investigations such as fraud, espionage, data theft, and cyber vetting.

Mode of Offering: The course is presented via facilitated    e-learning, utilising an e-learning platform and virtual classes.

Intended Audience:

This course is designed for investigation officers, cyber-crime investigators, investigative journalists, etc.

Requirements

Applicants should have a Matric certificate or equivalent qualification. Although a formal IT qualification or certification is not required, some knowledge of computer systems would be beneficial. Internet access and a PC or laptop on which applications can be installed and services accessed are required.

Costs:

R12,500 all inclusive

Duration:

5-months

Intake:

Applications are accepted throughout the year, with course starting dates in February, May, and August.

Course Overview:
  • Reconnaissance
  • Online services and tools
  • Metadata Encryption & Decryption
  • Digital signatures
  • Online investigations
  • Crime Scene Management
  • Documenting evidence
  • Investigation Process
  • Chain of Evidence
  • Protocols and emails
  • URLs & DNS information
  • Timelines
  • Decryption and deciphering
  • Virtual Currencies
  • Cyber criminology
  • Introduction to the attack process
  • Introduction to attack vectors
  • Social networks (i.e., attacks via Facebook, Twitter, etc.)
  • Dark and hidden web
  • Threat actors
  • Data Collection
  • Social Media
  • OSINT
  • HUMINT
  • SOCMINT
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Cyber Intelligence

Course Details

The main objective is to equip delegates with the necessary competencies and practical skills to assist in compiling an intelligence-driven cyber security strategy to provide proactive solutions to a plethora of cyber threats.

Mode of Offering: The course is presented via facilitated        e-learning, utilising an e-learning platform and virtual classes.

Intended Audience:

This course is designed for persons responsible for the security function, CISOs, as well as Data Protection Officers.

Requirements

Applicants should have a Matric certificate or equivalent qualification. Although a formal IT qualification or certification is not required, some knowledge of computer systems would be beneficial. Internet access and a PC or laptop on which applications can be installed and services accessed are required.

Costs:

R12,500 all inclusive

Duration:

5-months

Intake:

Applications are accepted throughout the year, with course starting dates in February, May, and August.

Course Overview:
  • Cyber Security Environment
  • Cyber Landscape
  • Cyber Threats and Exploits
  • Cyber Actors and Criminology Aspects
  • Obtaining Data
  • Sources of Data
  • Collection Operations
  • Applications, Tools, and Services
  • Analysis of Cybercriminals’ Modus Operandi
  • Analysis Techniques (Data to Information)
  • Indicators of Compromise
  • Cyber Intelligence
  • Intelligence Platforms, Applications, and Services
  • Data – Information – Intelligence
  • Intelligence Strategy
  • Incident Management
  • Cyber Warfare
  • Political and Commercial
  • Developing an Intelligence-Driven Strategy
  • Strategic and Tactical Intelligence Function
  • Risk Management
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Cyber Governance

Course Details

Establishing a security strategy and defining a suitable implementation plan focused on managing cyber risks in a volatile and dynamic environment requires a solid understanding of the threat space and frameworks. This course unpacks cyber governance and approaches to manage risk and adhere to compliance regulations.

Mode of Offering: The course is presented via facilitated    e-learning, utilising an e-learning platform and virtual classes.

Intended Audience:

This course is designed for Managers and C-Suites responsible for security, Board members, as well as prospective leaders in the Cyber Security space.

Requirements

Applicants should have a Matric certificate or equivalent qualification. Although a formal IT qualification or certification is not required, some knowledge of computer systems would be beneficial. Internet access and a PC or laptop on which applications can be installed and services accessed are required.

Costs:

R12,500 all inclusive

Duration:

5-months

Intake:

Applications are accepted throughout the year, with course starting dates in February, May, and August.

Course Overview:
  • Security Management Program
  • Cyber-crime
  • Threat Environment
  • Cyber Criminology
  • Regulations – GDPR, POPI, Electronic Act, PCI-DSS
  • Skills Frameworks
  • Cyber Awareness Programs
  • Risk management
  • Controls – Choice, Implementation, and Management
  • Security Frameworks and Models
  • Policies and Procedures
  • Data Protection
  • The road to ISO 27001 Compliance and Certification
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IT and Cyber Security Program

Course Details

Our courses combine essentials from both industry and academia to provide valid, unique, practical content that is innovatively presented via facilitated e-learning.

The IT and Cyber Security Program is a practical course consisting of coursework, virtual classes, and practical cyber range exercises.

Mode of Offering: Learning will be conducted through a facilitated online format, utilising an e-learning platform to provide an interactive and engaging educational experience. Additionally, hands-on practical sessions and virtual labs will be conducted every Friday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, offering participants the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world context. This blend of online facilitated learning and scheduled virtual sessions aims to create a comprehensive and dynamic learning environment, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience for participants.

Intended Audience:

This course is designed for school leavers, those on a gap year, graduates looking to add industry credentials, and individuals looking to make a career change.

Requirements

Applicants should have a Matric certificate or equivalent qualification. Internet access and a PC or laptop on which applications can be installed and services accessed are required.

Costs:

R 31,350 all inclusive

Duration:

12-months

Intake:

25 February 2026

Course Overview:
IT Foundation for Cyber Security
  • IT Hardware Fundamentals
  • Network Fundamentals
  • Introduction to Operating Systems (Windows and Linux) 
  • Introduction to Cloud Computing (Office 365 and MS Azure) 
  • Protocols 
  • Technical Research and Writing
  • Algorithms and Problem Solving
  • File and Database Systems
  • Scripting
  • New Technologies: AI and Quantum Computing
  • Soft Skills
Certificate in Cyber Security
  • Cyber Security Fundamentals 
  • The Cybercrime Eco-System
  • Actors in Cyber Space – State and Non-State Actors
  • Cyber Incidents: Attacks, Breaches, and Espionage
  • Understanding Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) using the Mitre Attack Framework
  • Cryptography (Symmetric/Asymmetric/Hashes)
  • Secure Protocols
  • Reconnaissance and OSINT (Open-Source Intelligence)
  • Cyber Security Frameworks and Standards: Introduction to the NIST CS Framework and ISO 27000 Series
  • Cyber Risk Management, Cyber Governance, and the Implementation of Security Controls
Facilitated online course with virtual classes, and practical training and skills development on the cyber range platform.
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