KUWAIT: The Central Bank of Kuwait (CBK) has officially launched the sixth cohort of its Cybersecurity Leaders Program, aimed at empowering Kuwaiti nationals who aspire to specialize in cybersecurity. Announced by CBK Governor Basel Al-Haroun, the initiative is designed to enhance participants’ skills and professional capabilities, ultimately fostering a new generation of experts equipped to safeguard information systems within Kuwait’s banking and financial sectors, adhering to international best practices.
Program Objectives and Strategic Importance
Al-Haroun emphasized that this program is a key component of the Central Bank’s broader strategy to cultivate national talent within the banking sector and the wider economy. By building specialized cybersecurity capabilities, the initiative aims to bolster the resilience of Kuwait’s financial institutions against the risks posed by rapidly evolving technologies. The program is intended to facilitate the adoption of cutting-edge technological solutions while ensuring that associated risks are effectively managed.
Collaboration and Implementation
The Cybersecurity Leaders Program is part of the Kafa’a (Competency) initiative, which is a collaborative effort between the Central Bank, Kuwaiti banks, and the Institute of Banking Studies (IBS). Al-Haroun described this partnership as a productive collaboration aimed at developing and qualifying national talent for leadership roles in cybersecurity and related fields. The program will be conducted in partnership with the SANS Institute, a globally recognized leader in cybersecurity training and certification.
Spanning three months, the program will culminate in a training workshop in collaboration with the Bank for International Settlements (BIS). Al-Haroun noted that this initiative builds on the successes of previous cohorts, continuing the fruitful collaboration with established partners.
Application Process and Timeline
To ensure a rigorous selection process, applicants will be evaluated based on objective criteria, including the successful completion of required tests and personal interviews. Interested Kuwaiti nationals are encouraged to review the program details and submit their applications from now until Thursday, September 24, 2026, via the program’s website at Kafaakw.org. This initiative not only aims to strengthen cybersecurity resilience across the banking sector but also extends to other critical sectors involved in the program.
For more information, Kuwait Times reported on the launch and its implications for national cybersecurity efforts.
Readers can also explore current and upcoming editions through the Cyber Warriors Middle East magazine section.
Readers can also explore current and upcoming editions through the Cyber Warriors Middle East magazine section.
