Vectra AI launches global scholarship for AI in cybersecurity

Vectra AI has announced the launch of a new scholarship programme to foster the next generation of talent in artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity. The Vectra AI Scholars Programme offers high school, undergraduate, and graduate students worldwide the opportunity to develop innovative solutions that utilise AI to address cybersecurity challenges.

The demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals continues to grow amid increasing cyber threats and the expansion of the hybrid attack surface. However, a significant skills gap persists, leaving many systems and data vulnerable. The scholarship programme seeks to close this gap by nurturing new talent in the cybersecurity field.

Hitesh Sheth, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Vectra AI, stated, "We believe the next generation of innovators will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of cybersecurity. This scholarship programme is designed to inspire students from around the world to explore how AI can uncover patterns in attacker behaviour and solve some of the most complex challenges in digital security. By investing in their creativity and ingenuity, we hope to empower young minds to push the boundaries of what's possible in the fight against threats."

The programme provides cash awards and mentorship from experts at Vectra AI. Scholarship winners will be recognised for their AI and machine learning proposals to enhance cybersecurity measures. The top applicant will receive a cash award of USD $10,000, and two runners-up will each receive USD $5,000 and mentorship opportunities.

Participants must submit an essay or research proposal discussing the intersection of AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity. Submissions will be judged on originality, feasibility, and potential industry impact criteria.

Sharat Nautiyal, Director of Security Engineering for Vectra AI, Asia Pacific and Japan, noted the importance of this programme in Singapore, "In Singapore, this initiative is particularly significant as it aligns with our national efforts to enhance AI literacy and innovation. By providing students with the necessary resources and mentorship, we are not only nurturing the next generation of cybersecurity experts but also bolstering our industry's capacity to counter emerging threats."

"With over 400 to 800 cybersecurity job postings each month in Singapore, this programme aims to bridge the skills gap, ensuring our nation remains at the forefront of technological advancements and cybersecurity resilience. We strongly encourage all eligible students to apply and seize this unique opportunity to shape the future of AI in cybersecurity."

The scholarship is open to students currently enrolled in high school, undergraduate, or graduate programmes in several countries, including Singapore, Australia, Canada, Germany, India, Japan, and the United States. Applicants are expected to have a strong interest in AI and cybersecurity and must demonstrate this through their submissions.