(Columbia, SC) –South Carolina Congressman James E. Clyburn announced today that seven Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) and one k-12 school district in South Carolina will be receiving over $16 million in funding for cybersecurity education.

Vice President Biden announced yesterday that $25 million in funding will be granted nationwide over the next five years to create a new cybersecruity consortium consisting of 13 HBCUs, two national labs and a k-12 school district. 

The growth of cybercrime is creating a need for cybersecurity professionals across a range of professions. By some estimates, the demand for cybersecurity workers is growing 12 times faster than the U.S. job market, and is creating well-paying jobs.

The following South Carolina entities will be participating in the consortium: Allen University, Benedict College, Claflin University, Denmark Technical College, Morris College, South Carolina State University, Voorhees College and the Charleston County School District.

“I am thrilled to announce the enormous investment that the HBCUs in South Carolina will be receiving in cybersecurity education,” Congressman Clyburn said.  “The ability to offer students at these schools the opportunity to diversify their education in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, is invaluable.  I have worked with the National Nuclear Security Administration to support math and science opportunities at HBCUs and this program continues those efforts.  I am looking forward to seeing students at these institutions excel in this field and become the leaders for the next generation.”