Qatar’s National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) has launched the third edition of the Cyber Security Youth Camp 2026, a three-week program designed to enhance cybersecurity awareness and skills among young students. The initiative, held in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education and the Ministry of Sports and Youth, is hosted at the Qatar Science and Technology Secondary School for Boys.

The camp is set to welcome around 400 participants, evenly split between boys and girls, aged 13 to 17 from various public and private schools across Qatar. This marks the third consecutive year the program has been organized as part of the NCSA’s ongoing efforts to cultivate a digitally literate generation equipped to address cybersecurity challenges and contribute to the nation's digital transformation.

A notable addition to this year’s camp is the introduction of a remote participation option. Students who cannot attend in person will be able to access the training and educational content through an e-learning platform, broadening access and inclusivity for a wider range of participants.

The camp’s curriculum focuses on six core areas: Fundamentals, Networking, Ethical Hacking, Web Security, Systems, and Cyber Defense. These subjects are delivered through a combination of lectures, interactive workshops, and hands-on practical exercises. On-site attendees receive additional support from specialized tools like the virtual “TryHackMe” platform to reinforce learning through practical application.

To enhance engagement, the program employs a game-based learning methodology with goal-oriented progression. Participants take part in collaborative challenges such as “Escape the Virus” and “Solve the Crime Mystery,” which encourage teamwork and critical thinking to solve complex cybersecurity tasks. The camp also includes competitive tournaments, creative workshops, and educational field trips.

Another key feature of the camp is the inclusion of interactive sessions with cybersecurity experts from government agencies, private companies, and academic institutions. These discussions aim to inspire students, provide insights into professional career paths, and highlight the growing demand for cybersecurity skills in the job market.

Through this initiative, the NCSA aims to lay the groundwork for a new generation of cybersecurity professionals, strengthening Qatar’s national cyber defenses and contributing to broader efforts in digital capacity building.