Liberia has recorded another major stride in the digital security space as Victor K. Jarlwood, Jr., completed the highly selective UNDP Regional Cybersecurity Experts Training, emerging among a distinguished cohort of young leaders from across West and Central Africa dedicated to advancing peace through technology.
Renowned for its intensity and uncompromising standards, the program required participants to complete months of demanding coursework, followed by 10 weeks of advanced virtual training and two weeks of rigorous in-person drills facilitated by global cybersecurity and peacebuilding specialists. The final stage of the training proved particularly grueling.
For two weeks, trainees underwent military-style drills, daily physical conditioning, and cybersecurity exercises. Fatigue became a constant companion as participants balanced complex technical modules with relentless physical discipline. But despite the diversity of nationalities, backgrounds, and languages, the group forged a powerful bond.
“Through it all, we united beyond our cultures, languages, and comfort zones. We learned discipline, solidarity, and excellence. Without discipline, we are simply disabled youths,” Jarlwood reflected. Graduates departed not only as certified cybersecurity practitioners, but as Tech4Peace Advocates, equipped to champion digital safety, collaboration, and continental stability.
He described the experience as deeply transformative, noting that it molded participants into responsible ambassadors for peace and digital resilience. “We walk away as leaders, ready to return to our nations and make positive impacts with the skills gained,” Jarlwood said.
The initiative was made possible through key support from the UNDP, Give1 Project, and the Open Society Foundation, organizations committed to expanding Africa’s cyber capacity and strengthening youth-driven peacebuilding. As Liberia continues to emerge as a promising hub for cybersecurity talents, Jarlwood’s accomplishment stands as a proud national milestone.
