CompTIA, the global leader in vendor-neutral IT training and certification, is sponsoring the upcoming #SS25HACK hackathon in South Africa—a key event to advance the cybersecurity skills of ICT students, young tech entrepreneurs, and cybersecurity enthusiasts. The hackathon runs alongside the ITWeb Security Summit, a premier annual event for the cybersecurity community.
Real-World Experience in a Cybersecurity Marathon
During this intense 24-hour challenge, student teams from across South Africa will develop innovative solutions focused on proactive cybersecurity measures tailored for today’s digital threats. Leveraging artificial intelligence, participants will craft systems that predict, detect, and mitigate cyber threats in real time, ensuring robust and adaptive security.
Loraine Vorster, Vice President, Sub-Saharan Africa at CompTIA, emphasized the event’s significance:
“The hackathon is the ideal proving ground for aspiring cybersecurity professionals to test their mettle in real-world scenarios and be mentored by experienced cyber leaders.”
Expert Judging and Valuable Career Opportunities
Among the esteemed judges is CompTIA’s Chief Technology Evangelist, Dr. James Stanger, who praised the students’ creativity and energy:
“It’s amazing to witness the energy and creativity that students bring to the Hackathon.”
The top three teams will each receive a free one-year membership to the Institute of Information Technology Professionals South Africa (IITPSA), granting access to professional development, networking, and career growth opportunities.
Preparing for Success with Industry-Led Training
In April, an IDEATHON prepared participants through sessions led by industry leaders, including a keynote from Dr. Stanger, equipping students with vital knowledge and guidance ahead of the hackathon.
Collaborative Ecosystem Supporting Cybersecurity Innovation
The hackathons will be hosted in Kimberley and Johannesburg, with CompTIA collaborating alongside Geekulcha, Snode Technologies, and educational institutions such as UNISA, Nelson Mandela University, and Sol Plaatje University.
CompTIA’s Role in Building the Global Tech Workforce
CompTIA has issued over 3.6 million certifications worldwide, supporting technology professionals across all sectors. As a trusted credentialing organization, CompTIA continues to enable tech talent development through industry-recognized certifications and learning solutions that open pathways to employment and career advancement.