Southern Alberta Institute of Technology
Southern Alberta Institute of Technology
Publish Date: 2026-06-25 00:02:00
Source Domain: educationnewscanada.com
Using an unordered list, summarize the following article with between 4 and 8 key points. The Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) and Mastercard are collaborating to expand access to cybersecurity learning and help organizations in Western Canada strengthen their digital resilience. SAIT Cybersecurity Learning Collective, powered by Mastercard, is a 10-week, 80-hour course designed for small businesses, non-profits and social enterprises, with the first cohort starting in September. Tuition is fully covered for eligible participants through funding from Mastercard, subject to program criteria and availability.
“Cyber threats don’t discriminate by size, yet many small businesses and non-profits are left navigating complex risks without the tools or support they need,” says Vis Naidoo, Associate Vice President, Continuing Education and Professional Studies, SAIT. “This course will help equip leaders with the knowledge and framework to make informed decisions and strengthen their organization’s resilience.”
Naidoo adds, “Together with Mastercard, we’re helping businesses build the digital and financial resilience needed to support their long-term growth and integrate resiliency into their foundation and organizational culture.”
Participants will gain practical tools to assess cyber risk, implement protective measures and prepare for cybersecurity incidents through immersive simulation exercises. By the end of the course, each participant will work towards developing an implementation-ready plan that aligns cybersecurity practices with their organization’s mission, governance responsibilities and operational capacity.
“Small businesses, non-profits and social enterprises are the backbone of the Canadian economy and our communities, and they are operating in an environment of increasingly complex cyber risks,” said Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs and Stakeholder Engagement, Mastercard, Canada. “Our collaboration with SAIT is about helping these organizations build the skills and confidence they need to manage digital risk, protect what they’ve built and thrive in today’s digital economy.”
SAIT Cybersecurity Learning Collective, powered by Mastercard, aims to empower the next generation of business leaders as they navigate the rapidly changing digital landscape, bringing to life a shared vision of innovation, community investment and applied learning in advanced digital technology.
Applications for the September 2026 cohort close July 31, 2026 at 11:59 pm MT.
