Call for Applications: 2026 Cyber Security Academy

Are you a university student or at the beginning of your career path?

Are you interested in exploring the current cyber security landscape?

APPLY FOR THE 9th ITERATION OF THE CYBER SECURITY ACADEMY!

The Prague Security Studies Institute (PSSI) invites you to apply for the 2026 Cyber Security Academy (CSA) – a prestigious, week-long program at the intersection of cyber security, diplomacy, strategy, and public policy.

Organised consistently ever since 2018 under auspices of the Czech National Cyber and Information Security Agency (NÚKIB), CSA has offered a unique training experience focused on key cyber challenges of today as well as current threats in the digital environment. Each year, 25 participants, chosen in a highly competitive selection process, come together in Prague to learn from leading experts and practitioners.

After successfully completing the Academy, all participants join the ranks of PSSI Alumni – a communal club of more than 1,000 PSSI’s graduates, including current and former ministers, ambassadors, high-ranking officials in national and international organisations, or influential individuals in the private sector and academia.

Who should apply for CSA?

• University students or young professionals;
• Future experts in the domains of international relations, political science, security studies, public policy, crisis management, cyber/tech fields, and related areas;
• Applicants from the Czech Republic, and NATO member/partner countries.

Why apply for CSA?

• A deep understanding through a tailored curriculum exploring cyber security through the lens of diplomacy, corporate world, military capacities, and strategic policy;
• Practical insights into current and emerging cyber threats shaping today’s global security landscape;
• Open debates with and direct access to leading Czech and international specialists from the public, private, and non-profit sectors;
• A firsthand decision-maker’s experience in managing and responding to a live international cyber crisis simulation;
• Valuable professional connections with peers and professionals at CSA and in the wider PSSI alumni network.

What can you expect at CSA?

• 16 expert lectures, practical workshops, and simulation exercises with prestigious lecturers from public, private, military, and academic domains;
• Exclusive reception hosted at the British Embassy in Prague;
• Study materials, coffee breaks, a goodie bag;
• Certificate of Completion;
• Access to the  PSSI Alumni community and invitations for future events.

Explore last year’s CSA program to gain a clearer understanding of the topics you can expect this year.

Apply through our application form no later than Sunday, August 2, 2026!

Participation fee

The participation fee is to be paid by bank transfer after receiving an email confirming the applicant’s acceptance into the program, according to the instructions provided in that email.

The fee includes: participation in the program; access to all lectures, workshops, and study materials; participation in the crisis simulation; coffee breaks and a goodie bag; as well as an invitation to an exclusive reception at the British Embassy in Prague.

Please note that the fee does not include accommodation, transportation, or meals.

If you have any questions regarding the program, consult the FAQ or contact us at susienka@pssi.cz.