NEW DELHI: ESET, a global leader in cybersecurity, today announced the launch of the 2026 ESET Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship in India, in partnership with Ashoka University. 2026 marks the second year that ESET is running the Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship in India with Ashoka University, building on the programâs continued efforts to support and develop the next generation of cybersecurity talent.
Despite growing demand for cybersecurity professionals, the latest ISC2 Cybersecurity Workforce Study 2025 highlighted a widening skills gap, with 59% of organisations reporting critical or significant cybersecurity skills shortages, particularly as emerging technologies such as AI reshape the threat landscape. At the same time, women remain underrepresented in the field, with ISC2 estimating that they make up 22% of the global cybersecurity workforce. Expanding access and opportunities for women will therefore play an important role in strengthening the cybersecurity talent pipeline and preparing the workforce for an AI-driven digital future, particularly as India accelerates digital transformation through initiatives such as Digital India and the IndiaAI Mission.
The scholarship is designed to empower women in technology, offering financial support, visibility, and access to a global Alumni Club focused on mentorship, collaboration, and career growth, reflecting ESETâs commitment to diversity and inclusion in cybersecurity.
In India, ESET will award 1 scholarship totaling USD 5,000. Eligible applicants include women enrolled in undergraduate or postgraduate IT/cybersecurity programs at Ashoka University,India. Full criteria available on the website here.
âIndia has long been a global hub for technology talent, and strengthening the cybersecurity workforce will be critical as digital adoption accelerates,â said Parvinder Walia, President of the APAC region at ESET. âBy 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.â
âClosing the gender gap in cybersecurity goes beyond accessâit 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 changeâ, saidPramath Raj Sinha, Chairperson, Board of Trustees, Ashoka University.
How to apply
- Apply: Here
- Opens: March 6, 2026
About the ESET Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship
The ESET Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship supports female students pursuing IT and cybersecurity degrees, with programs running in the US, Canada, UK, Australia, India, Singapore, and launching in Romania in 2026. Beyond financial support, recipients join ESETâs Alumni Club - a community for ongoing networking, mentorship, and opportunities to share their journeys.
About ESET
ESETÂź provides cutting-edge digital security to prevent attacks before they happen. By combining the power of AI and human expertise, ESET stays ahead of known and emerging cyberthreats â securing businesses, critical infrastructure, and individuals. Whether itâs endpoint, cloud, or mobile protection, our AI-native, cloud-first solutions and services remain highly effective and easy to use. ESET technology includes robust detection and response, ultra-secure encryption, and multifactor authentication. With 24/7 real-time defense and strong local support, we keep users safe and businesses running without interruption. An ever-evolving digital landscape demands a progressive approach to security: ESET is committed to world-class research and powerful threat intelligence, backed by R&D centers and a strong global partner network. For more information, visit www.eset.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.
About Ashoka University, Delhi-NCR:
Ashoka University is a premier interdisciplinary higher education and research-focused institution, offering world-class opportunities in the natural sciences, social sciences and humanities. Established in 2014 by leaders, thinkers, academics and philanthropists from diverse fields, it operates on a unique model of collective philanthropy, blending the finest governance practices with cutting-edge pedagogy and an internationally reputed faculty.
Today, the University has a community of 3000+ students, and operates 20+ dedicated Centers of Excellence, producing research and interventions for impact in areas such as public health and disease control, energy transition, digitisation of society, and women empowerment, among other areas of public policy. The University stands for principles of inclusivity and diversity, having more than 57% women, 4% international scholars, 100+ specially abled students, and over 47% students on scholarships.
For further information, visitwww.ashoka.edu.in

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