ESET launches women in cybersecurity scholarship in India with Ashoka University

Cybersecurity company ESET has launched the 2026 Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship in India in collaboration with Ashoka University, continuing an initiative aimed at supporting more women to pursue careers in the cybersecurity field.

This marks the second year the scholarship is being offered in partnership with Ashoka University.

The program seeks to strengthen the cybersecurity talent pipeline by providing financial assistance and professional development opportunities to women studying in technology-related fields.

The initiative comes at a time when the cybersecurity sector is facing a widening talent gap.

According to the ISC2 Cybersecurity Workforce Study 2025, about 59% of organizations reported critical or significant shortages of cybersecurity skills, especially as emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence continue to transform the threat landscape.

The report also estimates that women account for only 22% of the global cybersecurity workforce.

The scholarship is designed to support women in technology by offering financial aid, increased visibility, and access to ESET’s global alumni club, which focuses on mentorship, collaboration, and career development.

In India, ESET will award one scholarship worth $5,000. The opportunity is open to women enrolled in undergraduate or postgraduate IT or cybersecurity programs at Ashoka University.

“India has long been a global hub for technology talent, and strengthening the cybersecurity workforce will be critical as digital adoption accelerates,” said Parvinder Walia, President of the APAC region at ESET. “By encouraging more women to pursue careers in cybersecurity, we can unlock new perspectives, expand the talent pool, and help shape a more resilient digital future.”

“Closing the gender gap in cybersecurity goes beyond access—it requires sustained support, mentorship, and opportunity. Through this unique partnership with ESET, Ashoka University is committed to empowering aspiring women professionals with the skills, guidance, and confidence to thrive in this dynamic field. The ESET Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship is a step toward fostering talent that will drive meaningful innovation and lasting change," said Pramath Raj Sinha, Chairperson, Board of Trustees, Ashoka University.

The ESET Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship supports female students pursuing IT and cybersecurity degrees in several countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, India, and Singapore.

The program is also scheduled to launch in Romania in 2026. In addition to financial assistance, recipients become part of ESET’s Alumni Club, which provides ongoing networking opportunities, mentorship, and a platform to share experiences in the field.