RAGCED in Partnership with Rotary's IT Professionals Fellowship
Transforming Community Economic Development in Africa through Cybersecurity and AI Training
$3.5 billion
Annual cybercrime loss across Africa.
$500 million
Annual cybercrime Loss in Nigeria
$573 million
Annual cybercrime loss in South Africa
IT-Professionals Forum Rotary Fellowship
At RAGCED, in partnership with the Rotary’s IT Fellowship, we’re committed to advancing economic opportunities across Africa by addressing the critical need for skills in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI). Through targeted training programs, our initiative will empower individuals and communities to build sustainable careers and bolster local economies. By equipping participants with in-demand technical skills, we’re creating pathways for meaningful employment and ensuring communities can thrive in an increasingly digital economy.
Why Cybersecurity and AI?
The demand for cybersecurity and AI skills is growing rapidly across Africa, where businesses and governments are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats. According to research from the African Cyber Security Conference (ACSC), the continent is estimated to lose over $3.5 billion annually to cybercrime, affecting both the economy and public trust in digital systems. As digitalization grows across sectors—such as finance, healthcare, and education—the need for cybersecurity expertise becomes urgent. AI, meanwhile, has the potential to drive economic growth by automating processes, enhancing decision-making, and fostering innovations that meet local needs, particularly in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Course Objectives
Our Cybersecurity and AI training course is designed to:
1. Develop Practical Skills: Trainees will learn cybersecurity basics, such as threat detection and response, as well as AI principles, such as data processing and machine learning applications.
2. Enhance Employability: By providing hands-on skills, we ensure that participants are job-ready, giving them a competitive edge in the job market and enabling them to secure roles in high-growth fields.
3. Support Community-Based Entrepreneurship: Armed with knowledge in AI and cybersecurity, participants can launch their own businesses, providing much-needed services to their local communities.
4. Promote Sustainable Economic Growth: Skilled professionals contribute to local economic stability by building a more resilient digital infrastructure, which can foster investor confidence and open up new economic opportunities.
Expected Impact on Economic Development
• Job Creation: According to the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Africa could create as many as 230 million jobs by 2030 through digital and technology-based roles. Our program aims to directly contribute to this potential by preparing individuals for roles in cybersecurity and AI, two of the most critical fields in the digital era.
• Entrepreneurship and Local Business Growth: Cybersecurity training and AI will empower participants to start businesses that meet local needs. From offering IT support to local businesses to developing AI-driven solutions for agriculture, health, and finance, our graduates will contribute to creating self-sustaining economies.
• Improved Public Security and Trust: With a better understanding of cybersecurity, communities can protect themselves from cyber threats, thereby improving public trust in digital platforms. This is crucial for governments and businesses alike, as they strive to serve their populations through digital services.
References and Case Studies
African Cyber Security Conference (ACSC)
Their research highlights Africa’s cybersecurity vulnerability and underscores the potential for economic loss prevention through skilled local professionals.
International Finance Corporation (IFC)
Their 2019 report on digital transformation in Africa points out that digital skills, particularly in high-tech fields like AI and cybersecurity, will be instrumental in creating sustainable jobs and developing resilient economies.
The World Economic Forum
The forum’s research on AI in Africa underscores AI's transformative potential for economic growth, especially in agriculture, healthcare, and education. Our program participants will harness this potential for localized impact with tailored training.
Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence Foundation Courses (Charitable Subsidized Price)