BACKGROUND
The CybHER programme is yearlong project to be implemented in the Western Balkans. The expected impact of the programme is a more inclusive and gender-diverse cybersecurity landscape across the Western Balkans by boosting and promoting women and girls’ participation in the cybersecurity workforce. In doing so, it seeks to create a cybersecurity environment in the Western Balkans that is more representative of the women and better equipped to be resilient, adaptable, and innovative in addressing emerging cybersecurity challenges.
The programme will establish cybersecurity clubs for at least 900 girls in secondary education (at least 150 girls per country), aiming to raise awareness about cybersecurity and inspire them to pursue careers in the field. These clubs will provide hands-on learning experiences, mentorship, and exposure to real-world cybersecurity challenges. To bridge the gap between education and employment, the program will offer internship opportunities for 60 recently graduated women across the region, equipping them with practical, work-based experience in cybersecurity and enhancing their prospects for securing jobs in the industry. Additionally, at least 90 young women (15 per country) will receive the UK National Cyber Security certification, strengthening their qualifications and improving their employability in the cybersecurity sector. In terms of career pathway, for 90 women already working in cybersecurity across the region, the program will provide leadership development initiatives, enabling them to build managerial skills and advance to higher-level positions within the industry. Lastly, the program will advocate for evidence-based recruitment and hiring practices, fostering inclusive workforce environments. It will also promote women and girls-sensitive retention and promotion policies across businesses, government agencies, academic institutions, and other entities within the cybersecurity sector to ensure long-term career growth and participation for women.

Programme Implementation

• Plan, manage, and oversee all programme activities within the country in alignment with the regional strategy and objectives.
• Lead the establishment and ongoing support of cybersecurity clubs for secondary school girls.
• Coordinate the selection and placement of interns and certification candidates.
• Facilitate delivery of leadership development programmes for mid-career women professionals.

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with local partners, including schools, universities, government agencies, private sector employers, and NGOs.
• Represent the programme in local events, meetings, and advocacy efforts.
• Support local buy-in and alignment with broader programme goals and gender equity principles.

• Manage the country-level budget, ensuring responsible use of resources and adherence to financial guidelines.
• Oversee procurement, logistics, and contracting for in-country activities, in compliance with organisational and donor policies.

• Support data collection and ensure timely submission of monitoring information aligned with the MEL framework.
• Prepare high-quality progress updates and contribute to donor reporting.
• Document and share success stories, challenges, and lessons learned.

• Manage and support in-country staff and consultants involved in programme delivery.
• Foster an inclusive, collaborative, and values-driven team culture.
• Ensure safeguarding and gender-sensitive practices are upheld in all activities.