In a groundbreaking initiative to promote cybersecurity education in Botswana, Orange Botswana, through the Orange Digital Center (ODC), generously sponsored the annual Cyber Clash Hackathon. The event was held on April 26, 2024, at Botho University in Gaborone.
Cyber Clash is an annual cybersecurity competition, and it’s inauguration in Botswana aims at engaging the youth of Botswana, identifying top talents, and enhancing their cybersecurity skills. The competition was developed by Serianu Limited and African Cyber Security, following research that highlighted a significant gap in cybersecurity skills among young people in the region.
The competition features a Virtual Capture The Flag (CTF) event—an online competition where participants tackle puzzles and challenges to showcase their cybersecurity knowledge—and a Physical Challenge with Finals, where qualifying teams engage in hands-on activities and compete in a live event to identify the top three teams.
The winners of the 2024 competition received prizes for each team member sponsored by Orange Botswana are as follows:
1. 5G enabled TCL smartphone and earbuds
2. Orange Unlimited Konnecta (pre-loaded with data) and wireless headphones
3. Smart watches
Said Orange Digital Center Acting Manager, Ms. Ann Moatshe, “This event not only highlights the talents of our young people but also underscores the critical importance of advancing cybersecurity skills to safeguard our digital future. The top three teams will participate in an intensive mentorship program offered in collaboration with ODC. This fast-track course is designed for aspiring cybersecurity professionals and covers a broad spectrum of security topics. Through real-world exercises and cyber intelligence activities, the program ensures that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also practically skilled and job ready.”
The Orange Digital Center, which opened its doors in 2022, has been instrumental in nurturing young talent across Botswana. The center is dedicated to empowering youth with digital innovation and entrepreneurial skills, providing free training in computer-aided design, programming, and manufacturing, while also enhancing employability skills and promoting entrepreneurship.
