{TESS+} SCS Global Training Programme 2026 Online

Applications are now open for the technical session.
Application deadline: 30 September 2026

Introduction:

{TESS+} is the primary global focal point for guidance and support on Security Communication Systems (SCS) for the United Nations Security Management System (UNSMS) and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). {TESS+} provides practical support to strengthen the UN SCS for the safety and security of UNSMS and NGO personnel. {TESS+} works closely with security professionals and ICT personnel.

{TESS+} is delighted to launch the new {TESS+} SCS Global Training Programme. The programme is a fully online training with live instructor-led sessions. The training is free for participants.

The {TESS+} SCS Global Training Programme provides humanitarian staff with an in-depth induction into the UN SCS. The online training provides participants with a holistic overview of how to plan, run and manage an SCS effectively. Participants will be taken through the official UN SCS standards and how they should be applied to design and deliver an optimal SCS to support staff safety and security in the field. The training will be delivered by UN personnel who have spent most of their time in the field. Participants will be required to complete some online pre-work before attending the instructor-led online sessions.

Applications for the *technical session* are now open globally. The training will be delivered in English.

The {TESS+} SCS Global Training Programme consists of two separate sessions, each with a different target audience:

• Technical session: for technical personnel (ICT and SOC staff) from UNSMS organisations and NGOs who are responsible for the technical planning, implementation and support of the UN SCS.
• Security session*: for UN security professionals responsible for the management and oversight of the UN SCS.
  
  *{TESS+} is planning to offer the *security session* in 2027. More details will be shared in 2027.

Training dates:

This round of the {TESS+} SCS Global Training Programme will be delivered fully online via Microsoft Teams. The daily start time will be 13:00PM (UTC+1). The complete training will be delivered across two weeks (Monday-Friday) with an engagement of 3 hours per day (plus a 20 minute break). Participants must commit to attending all sessions in full and, where possible, avoid distractions during the allocated training times.

Details:

Seats: 25 people

Dates & time:
> 2 – 6 Nov 2026 (Mon-Fri) and 9 – 13 Nov 2026 (Mon-Fri) — [10 days in total].
> Training will start at 13:00PM (UTC+1) and finish at 16:20PM (UTC+1) each day.

Language: The training will be delivered in English.

Costs: There is no fee to participate in the training. The training is fully online.

Logistics: No travel is required to attend this training given it is fully online. The sessions will be delivered virtually over Microsoft Teams. The complete training will be delivered across two weeks (Monday-Friday) with an engagement of 3 hours per day (plus a 20 minute break).

Target audience: Applications for the technical session are open to UN and NGO personnel (ICT and SOC staff) with a technical profile.
*Note: a security session is planned to take place in 2027 – further details will be announced in due course.

Selection criteria (technical session):

Mandatory pre-requisites:

• United Nations or Non-Government Organisation (NGO) employee.
• Technical skills and experience in designing, configuring, deploying, maintaining and/or supporting United Nations Security Communication Systems (SCS).

Desirable:

• Knowledge of the United Nations Security Communication System (SCS) eg. VHF/UHF radio communications, mobile satellite services etc.
• Active participation in a local ICT Working Group (if applicable).

Selection criteria (security session): to be advised at a later date when applications open for the security session.

Application process:

To apply for the technical session of the {TESS+} SCS Global Training Programme, please fill-in the online application form and submit your nomination letter via email following the instructions below.

• 1. Application form: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/aFJ2Mw0ftH
  
• 2. Nomination letter: please email your nomination letter to tess@wfp.org.
  • The nomination letter must meet the following requirements: 
    • Nomination letter must come from the Director / Deputy Director of the applicant’s country/regional office, or a manager that is responsible for security telecommunications across the applicant’s organisation globally/regionally (eg. Security Adviser, Chief of Security, CIO, Chief of IT, Regional IT Officer, Country Director).  
    • Written in English. (The training will be delivered in English)
    • Written on the applicant’s organisational letterhead.
    • Full name, organisation, location and position title of the applicant.
    • Full name, organisation, contact information (email address & phone number), and position title of the nominator. 
    • A statement indicating that the candidate will be released from their official work duties to attend all online training modules.
    • A statement confirming that the applicant has prior technical experience with the United Nations Security Communications System (SCS).
  • Please note: prior to requesting a nomination letter from the designated nominating authority, the applicant must engage with their supervisor for endorsement and approval of the training activity with regard to their work profile, responsibilities and upcoming commitments.