New online cyber training platform launches to address africa's critical security skills gap

South African cyber security firm introduces affordable training programs as continent faces mounting digital threats and workforce shortage

Ulrich Swart and Jason Spencer, co-founders of Subverted.

Subverted, a South African cyber security firm, has introduced an online training platform aimed at developing cyber defense professionals across Africa, where the shortage of qualified security specialists has become critical. The Subverted Academy offers comprehensive online programs starting at $8 monthly, with three introductory courses available at no cost.

The platform's launch comes as South African organizations face an estimated 2,000 cyber attacks weekly, according to industry data, while official reports to the Information Regulator documented only 2,300 incidents throughout the past year. This discrepancy underscores the urgent need for skilled professionals who can identify and respond to digital threats.

Africa faces unique challenges in developing cyber security talent, with the World Economic Forum identifying high training costs as a primary obstacle for specialized education across the continent. The global cyber security workforce shortage has reached approximately four million professionals, with African nations experiencing particularly acute gaps in qualified personnel.

The academy's curriculum encompasses 28 courses covering IT fundamentals, offensive security, defensive security, and strategic security planning. Training modules include practical challenges that replicate real-world attack and defense situations, enabling participants to develop applied skills rather than theoretical knowledge alone.

Ulrich Swart and Jason Spencer, both experienced penetration testers who co-founded Subverted, designed the platform based on their experience training cyber security professionals. The curriculum targets multiple audiences, from individuals entering the field to established IT professionals seeking specialization in security.

"The emphasis is on practical, real-world skills, using guided challenges that simulate authentic attack and defence scenarios that will enable learners to master the concept and skill application, not just memorise the commands or theory," Spencer stated.

The platform provides structured learning pathways, certification options, and hands-on technical exercises. By delivering content entirely online, the academy enables participation from students across Africa and beyond, removing geographical constraints that have traditionally limited access to specialized cyber security education.

The initiative addresses a critical need as African businesses and government agencies increasingly rely on digital infrastructure while facing sophisticated cyber threats. With affordable pricing and comprehensive coursework, the platform aims to expand the pool of qualified security professionals available to protect the continent's growing digital economy.