The Beninese government has taken a significant step in strengthening the country's cybersecurity capabilities by certifying 40 young women as analysts. The training program, which lasted for nine months, was conducted at the Ecole des métiers du numérique and was initiated by the Agence des systèmes d'information et du numérique (Asin). The program aims to increase the presence of women in the cybersecurity sector and to develop the skills of young Beninese women in the field of digital security.
The 40 certified women, who come from six different departments in Benin, underwent a rigorous selection process out of 1,689 applicants. They acquired fundamental knowledge of computer science and networks, principles of information system security, and techniques for identifying threats, detecting incidents, and analyzing security alerts. They also familiarized themselves with the tools and practices used in professional cybersecurity environments.
The certification ceremony, which took place on November 6, was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Ouanilo Medegan Fagla, director of the Centre national d'investigation numérique (Cnin). Fagla congratulated the beneficiaries on their achievement and encouraged them to continue learning and gaining experience in the field of cybersecurity. He emphasized that cybersecurity is a field that requires curiosity, rigor, and a constant ability to learn.
The program has already yielded positive results, with two of the beneficiaries being integrated into the Cnin teams and three others undergoing professional internships. Three laureates have also received job opportunities or are pursuing further education, including two who are continuing their studies in France. The Luxembourgish cooperation, which is a partner in the program, has expressed its satisfaction with the results and has called on institutions and companies to facilitate the professional integration of these young women.
Yasmine Gatta, one of the beneficiaries, expressed her gratitude to the partners, trainers, and families who supported them during the program. She described the certification as the beginning of a new adventure and emphasized that the young women are now ready to work together to protect the country's digital space. Ghyslain Foundohou, representing the Minister of Communication, emphasized that the certification validates the efforts made by the beneficiaries and commits them to contributing to the protection of information systems and the strengthening of Benin's digital sovereignty.
The program is seen as a significant step towards promoting the presence of women in the cybersecurity sector in Benin. The experience gained through this program could serve as a basis for new initiatives aimed at expanding access to cybersecurity careers for young women. The government and partners are expected to continue supporting the development of digital skills among young Beninese women to strengthen the country's cybersecurity capabilities.
Key points
- The program aims to increase the presence of women in the cybersecurity sector and to develop the skills of young Beninese women in the field of digital security.
