- The initiative aims to address the talent gap and improve women’s representation in cybersecurity
Cybersecurity company ESET has unveiled the 2026 edition of its Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship in India in partnership with Ashoka University, marking the second year of the initiative aimed at supporting women pursuing careers in cybersecurity.
The programme seeks to encourage greater participation of women in the cybersecurity sector, where they remain underrepresented despite rising demand for skilled professionals.
According to the ISC2 Cybersecurity Workforce Study 2025, 59 per cent of organisations report critical or significant cybersecurity skills shortages globally, while women account for around 22 per cent of the cybersecurity workforce.
Under the initiative, one scholarship worth USD 5,000 will be awarded in India to a woman student enrolled in undergraduate or postgraduate IT or cybersecurity programmes at Ashoka University.
In addition to financial assistance, the scholarship programme provides access to a global alumni network that focuses on mentorship, collaboration and professional development.
ESET officials said the initiative aims to expand the cybersecurity talent pool and support workforce development as digital adoption accelerates and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence reshape the threat landscape. Applications for the 2026 scholarship opened on 6 March.
