Legal

Code of Conduct

The professional and behavioural standards expected of all participants in the Global Cyber Talent Initiative programme.

Last Updated: February 2026

This Code of Conduct outlines the professional and behavioural standards expected of all participants, staff, instructors, and stakeholders in the Global Cyber Talent Initiative ("GCTI"). Adherence to this code is essential for maintaining a professional, respectful, and productive learning environment.

Our Core Values

All members of the GCTI community are expected to uphold these core values:

Integrity

Act honestly, ethically, and with transparency in all interactions and work.

Respect

Treat all individuals with dignity, courtesy, and consideration regardless of background or differences.

Excellence

Strive for high standards in work, learning, and professional development.

Responsibility

Take ownership of actions, decisions, and their consequences.

Professional Behaviour

Respectful Communication

  • Communicate professionally and respectfully in all interactions
  • Listen actively and consider diverse perspectives
  • Provide constructive feedback and accept feedback graciously
  • Use appropriate language and tone in all communications
  • Respect others' time and commitments

Collaboration and Teamwork

  • Contribute actively and fairly to team projects
  • Share knowledge and support peer learning
  • Respect team decisions and work collaboratively
  • Recognize and credit others' contributions
  • Resolve conflicts constructively and professionally

Academic and Professional Integrity

  • Submit original work and properly cite sources
  • Avoid plagiarism, cheating, or academic dishonesty
  • Complete assignments independently unless collaboration is authorized
  • Maintain honesty in all assessments and evaluations
  • Report any violations of academic integrity

Ethical Standards

Cybersecurity Ethics

As cybersecurity professionals in training, you must:

  • Use skills and knowledge only for legitimate, authorized purposes
  • Respect privacy and confidentiality of information
  • Follow responsible disclosure practices for vulnerabilities
  • Never engage in unauthorized access or testing
  • Comply with all applicable laws and regulations
  • Report security concerns through proper channels

Confidentiality

  • Protect confidential and sensitive information
  • Respect privacy of others' personal information
  • Do not share proprietary or confidential materials
  • Maintain confidentiality of programme-related information

Conflict of Interest

  • Disclose any potential conflicts of interest
  • Avoid situations that could compromise professional judgment
  • Do not use programme resources for personal gain

Inclusive Environment

GCTI is committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and valued:

Diversity and Inclusion

  • Respect and value diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences
  • Do not discriminate based on protected characteristics
  • Challenge bias and promote inclusion
  • Create opportunities for all voices to be heard

Harassment and Discrimination

We prohibit:

  • Harassment, bullying, or intimidation of any kind
  • Discriminatory comments or behavior
  • Sexual harassment or inappropriate conduct
  • Offensive jokes, comments, or materials
  • Retaliation against those who report concerns

Zero Tolerance

GCTI has zero tolerance for harassment, discrimination, or any form of harm. Violations will result in immediate action, which may include removal from the programme.

Use of Resources

All participants must use GCTI resources responsibly:

  • Use resources only for authorized programme activities
  • Do not misuse or waste resources
  • Respect intellectual property rights
  • Report any misuse or abuse of resources
  • Follow all acceptable use policies

Attendance and Participation

Participants are expected to:

  • Attend scheduled sessions and activities punctually
  • Participate actively in learning activities
  • Complete assignments and assessments on time
  • Communicate absences or issues in advance when possible
  • Engage constructively in discussions and activities

Social Media and Online Conduct

When representing GCTI or discussing the programme online:

  • Maintain professional standards in all online interactions
  • Respect others' privacy and confidentiality
  • Do not post offensive, discriminatory, or harmful content
  • Be mindful that online behavior reflects on yourself and GCTI
  • Follow platform terms of service and community guidelines

Compliance and Enforcement

Violations

Violations of this Code of Conduct may result in:

  • Verbal or written warnings
  • Required training or remediation
  • Suspension from activities or resources
  • Removal from the programme
  • Legal action when appropriate

Reporting

If you witness or experience a violation:

  • Report concerns promptly to staff or the Code of Conduct Committee
  • Provide accurate information about incidents
  • Cooperate with investigations
  • Do not retaliate against those who report concerns

Contact Information

Sponsorship and Support: sponsor@globalcybertalent.com
General Inquiries: enquiries@globalcybertalent.com
Application Form: applications@globalcybertalent.com

Continuous Improvement

This Code of Conduct is a living document. We encourage feedback and suggestions for improvement. All members of the GCTI community share responsibility for upholding these standards and creating a positive learning environment.

Commitment to Excellence

By participating in the Global Cyber Talent Initiative, you commit to upholding these standards and contributing to a professional, respectful, and inclusive community. Together, we build not just technical skills, but also the professional character essential for success in cybersecurity careers.