YBB – Artificial intelligence is changing the digital security landscape. Therefore, cybersecurity professionals need new skills to protect AI systems and applications.
The CyberSafe x SANS AI Security Fellowship 2026 offers an opportunity for experienced cybersecurity professionals to develop this specialization. The program provides fully funded training and certification for selected participants.
Moreover, the fellowship focuses exclusively on African women aged over 21. It offers a flexible online learning experience that runs for nine months.
Participants will gain practical AI security skills through labs and real-world security challenges. In addition, leading consultants and researchers will provide training, mentorship, and support throughout the program.
About the CyberSafe x SANS AI Security Fellowship 2026
The CyberSafe x SANS AI Security Fellowship is designed for cybersecurity professionals who already have foundational experience. Instead of starting with basic cybersecurity concepts, the program allows participants to build specialized knowledge in AI security.
Throughout the fellowship, participants will explore practical techniques for securing AI systems and applications. They will also work on AI security challenges through hands-on laboratory activities.
Furthermore, the program provides preparation for globally recognized certifications. Participants can therefore strengthen both their technical expertise and professional profile.
The fellowship will run online for nine months, from October 2026 to July 2027. As a result, eligible participants can join from their current country of residence within Africa.
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What Will You Learn?
The learning path consists of four sections, with each section focusing on specific AI security topics.
Participants will develop practical skills through hands-on labs. These activities allow fellows to explore security challenges associated with AI systems.
In addition, fellows will learn from leading consultants and researchers. They will also receive ongoing mentorship throughout the program.
By the end of the fellowship, participants are expected to develop specialized AI security expertise. This knowledge can help them respond to emerging security challenges in an increasingly AI-driven environment.
CyberSafe x SANS AI Security Fellowship Benefits
The CyberSafe x SANS AI Security Fellowship provides several benefits for selected participants.
First, there are no tuition fees for the program. Therefore, eligible fellows can access the training without paying program tuition.
Second, the fellowship is conducted entirely online. Participants can consequently join from any African country where they currently reside.
The program also provides practical training, certification preparation, and mentorship. As a result, fellows can develop both technical capabilities and professional confidence in AI security.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship targets experienced cybersecurity professionals who want to specialize in AI security.
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be an African woman aged over 21.
- Currently reside in an African country.
- Have at least three years of practical cybersecurity experience.
- Have a genuine interest in AI security.
- Be able to communicate in English.
- Be ready to specialize in AI security.
- Be available to commit to the complete fellowship.
- Be able to follow the dedicated examination preparation timelines.
Therefore, applicants should demonstrate more than general interest in artificial intelligence. They should also show relevant cybersecurity experience and a clear motivation to develop AI security expertise.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the required documents before submitting their application.
The required materials include:
- Updated CV.
- Any additional articles or publications related to AI.
Additionally, applicants should be ready to explain their cybersecurity experience and interest in AI security through the application questions.
How to Apply for the CyberSafe x SANS AI Security Fellowship
The application process is completed online through the official program page.
Applicants should first access the application form. Then, they need to provide their personal and contact information.
Next, applicants must provide details about their professional background. They should also upload the required documents and answer the application questions within the stated word limits.
Afterward, applicants need to review the terms and conditions. They should also select how they heard about the program and provide the required data privacy consent.
Finally, review the entire application carefully before submitting it.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the CyberSafe x SANS AI Security Fellowship 2026 is September 10, 2026.
Since the deadline is approaching, eligible applicants should prepare their CV and supporting materials as soon as possible. Moreover, applicants should ensure that their responses clearly demonstrate their cybersecurity experience and motivation to specialize in AI security.
Why Should You Apply?
AI security is becoming an increasingly important area within the cybersecurity field. Therefore, developing specialized knowledge can help professionals prepare for emerging challenges.
The CyberSafe x SANS AI Security Fellowship combines structured learning with practical experience. Participants can work through security labs while learning from experienced consultants and researchers.
Furthermore, the nine-month format provides time to develop specialized skills rather than relying on a short-term training experience. The certification preparation and mentorship can also complement participants’ existing cybersecurity backgrounds.
For African women already working in cybersecurity, this fellowship offers a focused pathway toward AI security specialization.
Conclusion
The CyberSafe x SANS AI Security Fellowship 2026 offers experienced African women in cybersecurity a valuable opportunity to specialize in AI security.
The fully funded program runs online for nine months and combines practical training, AI security challenges, certification preparation, and mentorship. Most importantly, participants can develop skills that address new security challenges created by the rapid growth of AI.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and have at least three years of practical cybersecurity experience, consider applying before the September 10, 2026 deadline.
Apply now through the official program page: CyberSafe x SANS AI Security Fellowship 2026
