CBK Governor Announces Launch of First Cohort for "Cybersecurity Leaders - Advanced" Program

KUWAIT CITY – Basel Ahmed Al-Haroon, Governor of the Central Bank of Kuwait (CBK) and Chairman of the Institute of Banking Studies (KIBS), has officially announced the launch of the inaugural cohort of the "Cybersecurity Leaders - Advanced" program.

The initiative falls under the "Kafa’a" (Competence) umbrella—a strategic partnership between the CBK and Kuwaiti banks, managed by KIBS. The program is designed to cultivate national expertise within the banking sector and the broader national economy, specifically focusing on advanced technical capabilities in cybersecurity to keep pace with the strategic priorities of modern financial infrastructure.

Enhancing Cloud Security & Resilience

Governor Al-Haroon emphasized that this high-level program is tailored for experienced Kuwaiti cybersecurity professionals. It provides rigorous hands-on training in:

• Cloud Computing Security

• Threat Detection

• Security Architecture

The curriculum is designed to enable participants to earn globally recognized GIAC certifications, equipping them with the specialized expertise required to defend against sophisticated cyber threats, ensure regulatory compliance, and fortify the security posture of the banking industry.

Addressing Skill Gaps

The Governor highlighted that the program aims to bridge the acute shortage of high-level cybersecurity skills in the financial sector. By preparing specialized cadres to occupy senior leadership positions, the initiative supports the sector’s adherence to evolving regulatory and industry standards.

Strategic Partnership with SANS Institute

The "Advanced" program will be executed through multiple specialized training tracks. The first track, focusing on Cloud Environment Security, will span eight weeks in collaboration with the SANS Institute—a global leader in cybersecurity training and professional certification.

Application & Eligibility

Regarding enrollment, the Governor noted that selection is based on objective criteria, including mandatory technical assessments and personal interviews.

• Application Period: April 1, 2026 – April 30, 2026.

• How to Apply: Prospective candidates can review program details and submit applications via the official "Kafa’a" initiative website: www.Kafaakw.org.