Explore the Inspiring Leadership Journey of Lata Bavisi, President of EC-Council University and a Prominent Figure Among Asia's Influential Women Leaders.

1. Unveiling the Leadership Journey of Lata
Bavisi, President of EC-Council University
and One of Asia's Most Influential
Women Leaders
Founded in 2003, EC-Council University is committed to developing
exceptional educational programs that help graduates effectively address
the latest IT security risks and assume leadership roles when navigating
and mitigating these challenges. Licensed by the New Mexico Higher
Education Department, the University aims to create cyber security
leaders.
Recently, we had the privilege to talk with Lata Bavisi, the esteemed
President of EC-Council University, to learn more about her role in
leading EC-Council University and how the University empowers
professionals to face the latest cyber security threats confidently and
competently.
Below are the highlights of the interview:
You have very impressive expertise. We would love to hear more
about your professional journey! Please give us a brief overview of
your career and how you got to where you are today.
I have served on the board of various subsidiaries of the EC-Council
Group for a little over two decades and joined the Group Board in 2015.
My experience has always been in business management, investments,
and leadership, and I was offered the opportunity to step into the role of
vice president of EC-Council University in 2015. My passion for
education and my belief in the online education industry as a new and
vital means of learning in the coming years excited me even more, as
this platform has its own set of lessons and expectations.

2. The university took a different direction under my leadership, and we
saw our enrollments grow 100% year over year over the next 3 years.
This motivated the group to appoint me as the President of the
University and since then, we have grown to serve students in 79
different countries globally. The quality of our education reached the
ears of several educational organizations who approached us, and this
led to partnerships that saw our courses and programs being adopted by
these organizations in various countries.
Today, as the President of EC-Council University, I am privileged to
lead a team of dedicated individuals and contribute to shaping the future
of cyber security education worldwide. My journey has been fulfilling,
and I remain committed to empowering the next generation of cyber
security professionals and leaders.
Talk about EC-Council University. How is it helping students create
a better future?
EC-Council University is a US-recognized accredited institution
focusing on cyber security education and technology-related fields. It
offers various undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including
bachelor's and master's degrees, emphasizing industry relevance.
Developed from a learning model based on Bloom's Taxonomy, the
objective of EC-Council University's cyber security degree program is to
identify what students should learn, understand, and be able to do based
on their EC-Council University coursework. The university's degree
programs are established with a mix of both business management and
applied practical technology studies. This is based on the industry's need
to have a balance of applied skills and disciplines in both technical
domains of research and practical business knowledge in the workplace.
Programs that focus on either purely technical theory or a strong
managerial emphasis tend not to produce the well-rounded cyber
security experts that the industry wants, so we tend to focus on both
aspects of cyber security training.

3. As the President of EC-Council University, I am immensely proud of the
institution's commitment to excellence in cyber security education. Our
university stands at the forefront of shaping the future of cyber security
professionals, and I firmly believe that we are making a profound impact
on the industry and society as a whole.
Our focus on industry relevance is paramount. We understand that the
world of cyber security is dynamic, with threats and technologies
evolving rapidly. Therefore, we ensure that our curriculum remains
cutting-edge, incorporating the latest advancements and best practices.
By collaborating with industry experts, we stay informed about the
evolving cyber security landscape, preparing our students to meet real-
world challenges head-on and excel in their careers.
At EC-Council University, we prioritize the success and well-being of
our students. We strive to create a nurturing and supportive learning
environment that fosters growth and innovation. Our experienced faculty
members impart knowledge and serve as mentors, guiding students on
their educational journeys. Witnessing our students' growth and
witnessing their accomplishments as they transition into successful
cyber security professionals brings me immense joy and gratitude.
Testimonials from our students attest to the transformative power of EC-
Council University's education. We take great pride in knowing that our
graduates are making significant contributions to cyber security,
securing critical systems, protecting sensitive data, and defending
against cyber threats with world-class organizations.
As the President, my vision for EC-Council University is to continue
raising the bar in cyber security education. We will expand our
partnerships with industry leaders, conduct groundbreaking research,
and provide even more opportunities for practical experience. Our
graduates will continue to be sought after by top companies and
government agencies worldwide, making a lasting impact in
safeguarding the digital realm.

4. I am incredibly optimistic about the future we are creating at EC-
Council University. Our commitment to excellence, innovation, and
student success will remain unwavering, and together, we will forge a
safer and more secure digital world.
What led to the inception of EC-Council University?
The inception of EC-Council University was driven by the need to
bridge the gap between the demand for skilled cyber security
professionals and the industry's talent shortage. As a leading
organization in cyber security certifications, EC-Council recognized the
importance of fostering higher education and academic programs
tailored specifically for cyber security. By establishing EC-Council
University, we aimed to equip aspiring cyber security professionals with
comprehensive knowledge and hands-on skills, enabling them to make
significant contributions to the cyber security landscape. Our
commitment to excellence and industry relevance has led us to create a
dynamic learning environment that empowers students to become the
next generation of cyber security leaders.
Our deep-rooted connections with academic and industry boards around
the world helped us understand how much cyber security professionals
need knowledge across several domains of cyber security. They need
management and communication skills to facilitate their organizations’
abilities to function effectively, and they need employees with practical
skill sets to perform the tasks for which they were hired.
This understanding led to EC-Council University creating degree
programs with an equal focus on management and cyber security. Our
quality curriculum focuses on practical skills, which students acquire
through our cutting-edge iLabs, which feature over 200 lab exercises.
Students can practice their skills continuously, which ensures an
environment that fosters research and the development of vital soft skills
that help graduates secure jobs and retain them.

5. What's the most important thing you're working on right now, and
how are you making it happen?
At present, the primary focus of EC-Council University (ECCU)
revolves around the crucial task of bridging the existing gap between
academia and the rapidly evolving industry landscape. Our approach to
accomplishing this ambitious goal is multi-faceted and revolves around
creating a curriculum that is comprehensive and highly relevant to the
demands of the industry.
ECCU is dedicated to incorporating hands-on education and skills-based
competency into our curriculum to bring this vision to fruition. This
means that students are not just learning theoretical concepts but also
gaining practical experience that directly translates into real-world
scenarios. By allowing students to engage in practical exercises,
simulations, and real-world case studies, we equip them with the skills
and confidence needed to thrive in the professional landscape.
Furthermore, ECCU understands the increasing significance of soft
skills in today's job market. Therefore, our curriculum strongly
emphasizes developing these essential skills alongside technical
knowledge. By fostering effective communication, teamwork, critical
thinking, and adaptability, we ensure that our students graduate as well-
rounded individuals who can seamlessly integrate into diverse work
environments.
To make this comprehensive vision a reality, ECCU is working
diligently to collaborate closely with industry partners. By establishing
partnerships and maintaining an open dialogue with industry leaders, we
are able to gain invaluable insights into the evolving requirements of the
job market. This enables us to continuously update and refine our
curriculum to match the latest trends and advancements, ensuring that
our students are prepared to excel in their careers from day one.
Another integral aspect of our strategy involves engaging experienced
professionals from the industry as instructors and mentors. This enables

6. our students to learn directly from those who have hands-on experience
and insights. By bridging the gap between academia and industry
through these seasoned professionals, ECCU enhances the practicality
and relevance of our education.
In summary, EC-Council University's current paramount endeavor
revolves around harmonizing academia and industry through a
curriculum combining hands-on education, skills-based competency, and
developing vital soft skills. By staying closely aligned with the ever-
changing industry landscape and fostering collaboration between
education and practical experience, ECCU aims to produce graduates
who not only meet but exceed the expectations of employers,
contributing significantly to the cyber security and technology sectors.
How is EC-Council University increasing access to higher
education?
At EC-Council University, our mission revolves around empowering
individuals through accessible higher education. Our commitment to
increasing access to quality education is evident through our various
scholarship initiatives that cater to a diverse range of students. By
fostering an inclusive learning environment, we aim to provide
opportunities that transcend financial barriers and enable students to
embark on their educational journeys with confidence.
Our scholarship programs are a testament to this commitment. We
understand that financial constraints should not be a hindrance to
pursuing one's dreams, especially in the realm of cyber security and
technology. To that end, we offer a range of scholarships designed to
support students at different stages of their academic pursuits.
Academic Excellence Scholarships: Recognizing exceptional academic
achievements, these scholarships are awarded to students who have
demonstrated outstanding performance in their previous studies. This
initiative encourages and rewards dedication to learning and academic
excellence.

7. Diversity and Inclusion Scholarships: We strongly believe in the value
of diverse perspectives in the field of cyber security. These scholarships
are aimed at promoting diversity by supporting underrepresented groups,
ensuring that a wide array of voices contributes to the cyber security
discourse.
Military and Veterans Scholarships: We hold great respect for those who
have served in the military. Our military and veterans scholarships
acknowledge their dedication and sacrifice by providing them with
seamless opportunities to transition into the cyber security field.
Women in Cyber Security Scholarships: Encouraging gender diversity,
these scholarships are tailored to support women pursuing education and
careers in cyber security. We believe that fostering a gender-balanced
industry enriches the field's capabilities and innovation.
Financial Need Scholarships: Understanding the financial challenges
many students face, our financial need scholarships are designed to
assist those who require additional support to pursue their educational
aspirations.
These scholarship programs underscore our commitment to making
education accessible and inclusive. By providing opportunities to
individuals from various backgrounds, we aim to create a vibrant
community of cyber security professionals who bring unique
perspectives and insights to the table. Empowering our students with
scholarships is just one facet of our broader mission to cultivate a
generation of cyber security experts who can address the complex
challenges of the digital age.
At EC-Council University, we are dedicated to breaking down barriers
and empowering individuals to excel in the dynamic field of cyber
security. Our diverse range of scholarships reflects this commitment,
offering opportunities to students based on their achievements,
backgrounds, and aspirations. Through these initiatives, we aim to create

8. a positive impact not only on the lives of our students but also on the
cyber security industry as a whole.
What are the major challenges? How are you tackling those?
As the President of EC-Council University, I recognize that challenges
are an inherent part of any educational institution's journey. We see
these challenges as opportunities to make a deeper impact in the lives of
our students. One of the major challenges we face is keeping pace with
the rapidly evolving landscape of cyber security. To tackle this, we
continually update our curriculum to align with industry demands and
emerging technologies, ensuring that our students are well-prepared for
real-world challenges. By hiring faculty members who are not only
knowledgeable but also actively engaged in the industry, we enable our
students to receive instruction that is up-to-date and aligned with current
trends.
Our commitment to producing graduates who can seamlessly transition
into the real world is a cornerstone of our strategy. We emphasize the
practical implementation of the knowledge, skills, and abilities students
gain throughout the program. This approach equips our graduates with
the confidence and competence needed to excel in the cyber security
landscape.
Furthermore, our advisory groups and subject matter experts play a
pivotal role in our pursuit of staying current with technological
advancements. By collaborating closely with industry professionals and
thought leaders, we ensure that our programs remain aligned with the
dynamic demands of the cyber security field.
We also recognize the importance of staying attuned to industry
demands and employer expectations. To address this, we maintain strong
ties with cyber security organizations, conducting regular employer
surveys to align our programs with the current job market.

9. Overall, we believe that these challenges are opportunities for growth
and improvement. By continually innovating and adapting, we aim to
make a lasting impact on the cyber security industry and empower our
students to excel in their careers.
Do you believe in giving back to society? If so, then how?
Absolutely! At EC-Council University, we firmly believe in giving back
to society and positively impacting the lives of our students and the
world at large. As EC-Council University’s President, I am deeply
committed to fostering an environment where education catalyzes
positive change. We not only focus on providing quality education but
also strive to instill values of social responsibility in our students.
I'm thrilled to share that EC-Council has recently announced a
groundbreaking initiative – a $3.5 million scholarship fund for the
Certified Cybersecurity Technician (C|CT) program. This certification
program is designed as an entry point into the world of cyber security,
equipping individuals with practical, foundational skills that are essential
in today's digital landscape. This scholarship not only addresses the
pressing need for skilled cyber security professionals but also opens
doors for aspiring talents who might otherwise face barriers to entry.
By investing in initiatives like the Certified Cybersecurity Technician
scholarship, we aim to bridge the skills gap and foster a stronger, more
secure digital ecosystem. We believe that these efforts are not only an
investment in individuals' futures but also in the collective progress of
society.
One of the ways we give back is through our scholarship programs,
which aim to make education accessible to deserving students who may
face financial constraints. By offering scholarships, we hope to empower
talented individuals to pursue their dreams in the field of cyber security,
ultimately contributing to a more secure and resilient digital world.
According to our Student Learning and Career Outcome Survey
2022, 100% of our graduates are employed within a year, and 89.6% of

10. our graduates recommend our degree programs to their friends and
colleagues.
Many of our graduates not only find employment but distinction in their
career paths. For instance, Robert Samupindi's journey showcases how
our bachelor's degree program in data and information management has
empowered him to secure a prestigious position as an information
management officer at the United Nations headquarters. Graduate Devin
Acosta's experience highlights our commitment to accessible education,
as our generous credit transfer policy enabled him to obtain his
bachelor's degree efficiently, saving time and money. Similarly,
graduate Takahiro Oda's transformation illustrates the value of our
Master of Science in Cyber Security degree program, enabling him to
transition from an IT engineer to a successful cyber security professional
with two promotions. Luciano Gavoni from Italy also emphasizes how
our master’s degree has opened doors to career advancement and job
opportunities, helping him achieve his professional goals. These success
stories lie at the heart of EC-Council University's mission.
One of the other ways we do this is through our Black Girl Hack
initiative, which is a testament to our dedication to creating a more
inclusive and diverse cyber security industry. Our Black Girl Hack
initiative aims to empower and uplift aspiring women in cyber security,
providing them with the necessary skills and opportunities to become
cyber security leaders. We offer scholarships through specialized
training to equip these talented individuals with the tools they need to
succeed in this rapidly evolving field. By nurturing a diverse talent pool,
we not only address the gender gap in cyber security but also contribute
to a more robust and innovative industry.
In essence, giving back to society is integral to our ethos at EC-Council
University. Through scholarships and other impactful initiatives, we are
dedicated to shaping a better, safer world by empowering individuals
with knowledge, skills, and opportunities they deserve.

11. What can we expect from EC-Council University in the next five
years?
The world is our campus, and technology is our classroom. As an online
university, we aim to build cutting-edge curricula and lab environments
that allow our grads to demonstrate their abilities to be innovative,
effective thought leaders. In the next five years, EC-Council University
is committed to driving innovation and excellence in cyber security
education. We envision expanding our program offerings to cater to the
evolving industry demands, with specialized tracks in emerging areas
like AI, IoT, and cloud security. Collaborating with leading industry
experts and organizations, we aim to provide our students with cutting-
edge insights and hands-on experiences. Our goal is to be a global leader
in producing skilled and ethical cyber security professionals, addressing
the ever-growing cyber security challenges of the digital era.
As we step into the future, the trajectory of EC-Council University is
poised to redefine the landscape of cyber security education and
innovation. Our commitment to excellence remains unwavering, and the
next five years promise to bring forth a dynamic evolution that echoes
our mission: the world as our campus and technology as our classroom.
Central to our vision is the development of a cutting-edge curriculum
and lab environments. We recognize that in the ever-evolving realm of
cyber security, innovation is key. Our graduates will be equipped not
only with theoretical knowledge but also with hands-on skills that foster
innovation, effectiveness, and thought leadership. By melding
theoretical understanding with practical application, we ensure that our
students emerge as adept problem solvers and leaders capable of
navigating the complex challenges of the digital world.
Inherent in our mission is the aspiration to connect the global
community. In the next five years, EC-Council University envisions
itself as a catalyst for this connection, enabling the seamless exchange of
ideas, skills, knowledge, and abilities across borders. Our online
platform serves as a conduit for collaboration, transcending geographical

12. limitations and fostering a worldwide network of cyber security
professionals. Through this interconnectedness, we aim to create a
robust ecosystem where individuals, regardless of their location, can
contribute to and enhance the cyber security landscape.
Cyber threats persist in their evolution, requiring us to be ever-vigilant
and prepared. EC-Council University is dedicated to bolstering this
preparedness. In the coming years, we'll continue to refine our programs
to address the latest threats and emerging technologies. By staying at the
forefront of the industry, we're equipping our students with the skills and
knowledge needed to combat cyber threats effectively.
Our commitment to fostering a secure digital future extends beyond the
realm of education. We foresee EC-Council University becoming a
pivotal contributor to the global cyber security discourse. By sharing
insights, experiences, and solutions, we're collectively fortifying our
defenses against cyber threats. As we foster a community of cyber
security experts, we empower them to shape the landscape positively
and proactively.
In conclusion, the next five years for EC-Council University are poised
to be transformative and revolutionary. Through an innovative
curriculum, global connectivity, and a steadfast commitment to cyber
security excellence, we're not just preparing students for the challenges
of tomorrow, we're actively shaping the future of cyber security. The
journey ahead is exciting, and we invite you to be a part of this
remarkable evolution as we collectively strive for a safer and more
secure digital world.