Presented by Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) & Microsoft
FREE Microsoft Cybersecurity Training & Certification Programme
Creating Hope Africa is offering a FREE Microsoft Cybersecurity Training and Certification Programme in Velddrif, designed to help unemployed young people develop practical cybersecurity skills, gain exposure to internationally recognised Microsoft learning pathways and explore future opportunities in the ICT sector.
Funded by Microsoft and delivered by Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) Education Services South Africa, the programme - co-ordinated by Creating Hope Africa - combines theoretical learning, practical lab exercises and examination preparation across key areas of cybersecurity.
What is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting computers, networks, systems and information from digital threats, unauthorised access and attacks.
Programme at a glance
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Location: Velddrif Youth Café
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Training dates: 12–22 October 2026, excluding the weekend
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Duration: 9 training days
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Certification: Microsoft Certified SC-900 and SC-100
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Cost: FREE
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Applications close: 7 October 2026
Who can apply?
You are invited to apply if you are/have:
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South African citizen aged 19–35
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Currently unemployed
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Matric certificate
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Available and committed to attending the full 9-day programme
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ICT-related qualification at NQF Level 4, 5 or 6 is advantageous, but not required.
What will you learn?
The training combines theoretical learning, practical lab exercises and examination preparation, helping participants build knowledge and skills that can support future ICT career pathways. Participants will gain exposure to internationally recognised Microsoft certification pathways. Certification outcomes are subject to the relevant examination and programme requirements. The programme introduces participants to four Microsoft cybersecurity learning pathways:
Build foundational knowledge of cybersecurity principles, identity and access management, Microsoft Entra ID, multi-factor authentication, compliance and data protection.
Learn about Azure security and compliance, cloud security monitoring, Microsoft Defender for Cloud and security management in Azure environments.
Develop practical knowledge of cyber threat detection, incident response, endpoint security, security investigations and threat mitigation.
Explore advanced concepts including Zero Trust security architecture, cloud and infrastructure security, application and data security and enterprise cybersecurity strategy.
Certification Available
Learners who successfully complete the training and pass the associated Microsoft certification exams will exit with the below globally recognised certifications. These certifications are highly regarded within the cybersecurity industry and can significantly enhance learners' employability and career prospects.
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SC-900: Microsoft Certified - Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals (Foundational level certification covering cybersecurity, compliance, and identity concepts in Microsoft environments).
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SC-100: Microsoft Certified - Cybersecurity Architect Expert (Expert-level certification focused on designing and implementing cybersecurity strategies and architectures using Microsoft security solutions).
Important to know
The programme is FREE, but participants should be aware that:
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No stipend is provided
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No transportation is provided
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No catering is provided
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Participants must be able to attend the full 9-day programme at the Velddrif Youth Café
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Places are limited and completing an application does not guarantee selection
No computer or tablet?
We’ve got you covered.
You do not need to own a computer or tablet to participate. Computers or tablets will be provided during the training to participants who do not have access to their own device.
APPLY NOW!
Applications are now open for the Microsoft Cybersecurity Training and Certification Programme. Please complete the application form below. Applicants must meet all compulsory programme requirements to be considered.
Applications close: 12 October 2026.
Selection Process
The selection process will follow four stages to ensure fairness and transparency.
Step 1: Application
Complete Application form online or complete form at Velddrif Youth Café
Step 2: Screening
Applications screened based on criteria by a qualified panel of mentors
Step 3: Interview
Shortlisted candidates participate in a simple interview with the 2911 mentors
Step 4: Selection
Final selection announced at the 2911 Career Day on the 29th of April 2026