The Ghana Internet Safety Foundation (GISF) has officially opened applications for the 2026 cohort of its flagship Trust and Safety Africa Academy, a training initiative designed to equip Africans with the knowledge and skills needed to protect digital spaces across the continent.
As digital platforms continue to shape how people learn, work, and communicate, the need for stronger online safety systems has become increasingly critical.
In today’s digital era, millions of Africans rely on the internet for education, business, governance, and social interaction.
However, alongside these opportunities come serious risks such as misinformation, cyberbullying, online harassment, sextortion, and the misuse of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.
These challenges highlight the growing need for professionals who can actively build safer and more responsible digital environments.
Recognizing this urgent need, the Ghana Internet Safety Foundation is expanding its efforts to train a new generation of digital safety leaders through its Trust and Safety Africa Academy.
The program seeks to move beyond basic awareness and empower participants with practical tools and real-world strategies to address online harms.
The Trust and Safety Africa Academy is a virtual training program designed to nurture digital safety advocates across Africa.
Through expert-led sessions, mentorship opportunities, and collaborative learning, participants will gain valuable insights into tackling complex digital threats and promoting responsible online engagement.
According to Mr. Emmanuel Edem Kwamla Adinkrah, Executive Director of the Ghana Internet Safety Foundation and Convener of the Trust and Safety Africa Academy,
the project represents a crucial step in strengthening Africa’s digital resilience.
“Digital safety is no longer optional; it is a necessity for the sustainable growth of Africa’s digital economy.
Through the Trust and Safety Africa Academy, we are empowering young leaders to become guardians of safer online communities.”
The academy will provide participants with hands-on learning experiences designed to address real-world digital safety challenges. Participants will learn how to design initiatives that counter misinformation, support victims of online abuse, and promote ethical use of emerging technologies.
As Africa continues to experience rapid digital growth, experts believe the continent must invest in building a strong network of professionals capable of addressing digital threats before they escalate into larger societal problems.
The program also emphasizes collaboration among participants from different African countries.
By creating a strong peer network, the academy encourages knowledge-sharing and cross-border cooperation in addressing online safety issues.
Beyond technical knowledge, participants will also gain leadership and advocacy skills. These competencies will help them influence digital policy conversations and drive meaningful change within their communities and institutions.
President Emmanuel Adinkrah believes the academy is designed to produce not just learners but changemakers.
“Our goal is to build a community of professionals who will lead the charge in promoting trust, accountability, and safety across Africa’s digital ecosystem.”
Applications for the 2026 cohort are currently open to Africans who are passionate about making the internet safer and more inclusive.
The academy is particularly suitable for technology professionals, educators, researchers, policy advocates, and youth leaders interested in digital rights and online safety.
The entire program will be conducted virtually, allowing participants from across Africa to join without the limitations of geographic distance.
This approach ensures that the academy remains accessible to a diverse group of aspiring digital safety advocates.
Participants will also benefit from mentorship by experienced professionals working in technology governance, cybersecurity, and trust and safety fields.
This mentorship component is designed to help learners translate theoretical knowledge into real-world impact.
In addition to mentorship, participants will work on practical projects aimed at addressing specific digital safety challenges within their communities.
These projects will serve as a foundation for long-term initiatives that can continue beyond the duration of the academy.
The initiative forms part of the broader mission of the Ghana Internet Safety Foundation to promote safer internet use through education, advocacy, and strategic partnerships across Africa.
President Emmanuel Adinkrah stressed that Africa must be proactive in shaping the safety standards of its digital future.
“Africa’s digital transformation must be built on a foundation of trust and safety. By investing in education and capacity building today, we are preparing leaders who will protect the next generation of internet users.”
The academy also aims to strengthen Africa’s participation in global conversations around digital governance, online safety standards, and ethical technology use.
As more African economies integrate digital technologies into everyday life, initiatives like the Trust and Safety Africa Academy are expected to play a vital role in safeguarding users and strengthening digital trust.
The deadline for applications for the 2026 cohort is March 18, 2026, and interested applicants are encouraged to apply before the closing date.
Successful candidates will join a growing network of African digital safety champions committed to building safer, more inclusive online environments across the continent.
Those interested in applying can submit their applications through the academy’s official application portal at: https://bit.ly/TSAAcohort2.
Through initiatives like this, the Ghana Internet Safety Foundation continues to position Africa at the forefront of global efforts to create safer and more trustworthy digital spaces for everyone.
