Commonwealth accepting applications for Caribbean Cyber Experts Fellowship

The Secretariat of the Commonwealth announced the inauguration of the Commonwealth Caribbean Cyber Experts Fellowship program.

The application submission is now opened by the authorities for those who want to be part of the program in the region. The information was shared by the officials on Wednesday, 14 August.

The intention of the program is to enhance the security related to cyber space on the Caribbean islands. The people aged between 25 to 60, who are the citizens of Caribbean countries that are part of the Commonwealth area, are openly welcomed.

The participants will be getting a chance to be involved in networking events and conferences, along with access to academic research.

It is mentioned that the application will be accepted by those who have experience in the field of cybersecurity for at least five years. Applicants can come from the fields of telecommunications, policymaking, law, or academia. The fellowship will focus on collaborative efforts along with experts to strengthen the policies impacting cybersecurity.

The program will set a platform dedicated to cybersecurity, which will help in exchange of experience and knowledge on the subject along will building significant partnerships.

The program will also help in influencing the policies of the Commonwealth to structure plans of cyber defense and resilience across the Caribbean in a better way.

Patricia Scotland, the Commonwealth Secretary General, also talked about the Commonwealth Caribbean Cyber Experts Fellowship and highlighted the importance of the initiative. She mentioned in her words that amid rapid advancement in the field of technology, there are many countries around the globe that cannot build a strong defense for their cybersecurity.

Patricia Scotland Said, “To take complete advantage of rapid technological advancements, cybersecurity must be a top priority. Yet, we recognize that not every country has the expertise and resources to build resilient cyber defenses at the speed and scale required. This disparity is a risk we can’t ignore.”

The Secretary-General mentioned the importance and strength of the Commonwealth, which could play a crucial role in building a strong collaboration among member countries.

She said, “The Commonwealth has shown time and again that when we work together in mutual support and in a spirit of goodwill, we are more than equal to the challenge.”

Commonwealth Secretary-General Scotland added, “Building on this time-tested strength, our new Fellowship Programme brings together experts from across the Caribbean – many of whom might not usually collaborate – to co-create the solutions we need to help safeguard the region and its people from cyber threats.”

It is also highlighted by the officials that application submission for the Commonwealth Caribbean Cyber Experts Fellowship will be open for interested candidates till 23 September 2024. The application for the program can be submitted through the official email cyberfellowship@commonwealth.int.

The Commonwealth officials quoted that the applications of the interested candidates must include a resume along with a cover letter and details of two referees. These documents are necessary for the candidates to submit a valid application and be suitable for the fellowship.