Albuquerque, NM, March 20 2025: EC-Council University (ECCU), an accredited and 100% online university specializing in cyber security education, has announced a strategic partnership with Knowledge Circle Academy (KCA) to expand access to ECCU’s top-ranked cyber security programs for students across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
The MENA region faces a significant cyber security skills gap, with 87% of firms in the United Arab Emirates struggling to find qualified talent and handling approximately 50,000 cyberattack attempts daily. Additionally, the global shortage of skilled cyber security professionals reached a record high in 2023, with about 4 million vacancies worldwide, highlighting the urgency for specialized education in this field. Despite the growing demand, there is a scarcity of cyber security curricula in the region, limiting opportunities for native students to acquire necessary skills.
Through this collaboration, ECCU will extend its accredited degree programs while leveraging KCA’s local expertise and infrastructure. The partnership will provide students with high-quality cyber security education, academic support, dedicated supervisors, and an exclusive exam center to facilitate a seamless learning experience.
“EC-Council University is dedicated to building global cyber security talent and equipping professionals with the expertise needed to combat today’s evolving threats,” said Lata Bavisi, President, EC-Council University. “This partnership with Knowledge Circle Academy allows us to make cyber security education more accessible, reinforcing our commitment to bridging the cyber security skills gap. We are proud to lead this initiative and contribute to a safer digital future.”
ECCU provides undergraduate and graduate degrees in cyber security through a flexible, 100% online learning environment. The university is renowned for its cutting-edge curriculum and hands-on training, ensuring that students are equipped with the skills necessary to meet global cyber security challenges.
KCA Academy, with its extensive presence in the region, will support ECCU by delivering these high-caliber programs and providing students with specialized training. Mohammad Alkhudari, CEO of Knowledge Circle Academy, commented, “We are honored to collaborate with EC-Council University to bring world-class cyber security education to the MENA region. ECCU’s accredited degree programs combined with our support, will empower the students to excel in the field and advance their careers.”
The initiative marks a major milestone in strengthening the cyber security workforce in the MENA region and ensuring professionals are prepared to meet the increasing demands of the digital age.
About EC-Council University:
EC-Council University (ECCU) is the home of academic excellence covering every discipline of modern cyber security. We pride ourselves on being a fully accredited online institution that offers career-defining cyber security learning experiences to students and professionals from across the globe.
Quick facts about ECCU:
- Headquartered in Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Founded in 2003
- Ranked among “The Top 10 Best Online Master’s in Cyber security” by Fortune®
- Faculty of renowned cyber security industry experts, leaders, and innovators
- Accredited and recognized by U.S. governing bodies like DEAC, CHEA, ACE, and more
Catalog of online degree and non-degree programs from ECCU:
- Master of Science in Cyber security
- Master of Science in Computer Science
- Master of Business Administration
- Bachelor of Science in Cyber security
- 6 Graduate Certificate Programs
For more information please visit www.eccu.edu
About Knowledge Circle Academy (KCA)
Knowledge Circle Academy (KCA) is a premier provider of specialized training and professional development solutions, dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations with industry-relevant knowledge and skills. With a strong focus on technology and cyber security education, KCA partners with global institutions to deliver high-quality programs tailored to the needs of professionals in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Committed to excellence, KCA provides localized training, expert-led instruction, and a robust support system to ensure learners achieve their career and business objectives. Through strategic collaborations with internationally recognized entities, KCA bridges the gap between global standards and regional expertise, fostering innovation and workforce readiness in today’s digital economy.
