Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has taken an exciting step to build a skilled telecom workforce. They recently signed agreements with major tech companies like Ericsson India, Qualcomm Technologies, Cisco Systems, and Nokia Solutions in New Delhi.
This initiative, announced by Union Minister of Communications Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, aims to launch advanced training programs in areas like 5G, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital technologies. The training will take place at BSNL’s premier facility, the Bharat Ratna Bhim Rao Ambedkar Institute of Telecom Training (BRBRAITT) in Jabalpur.
These partnerships fit well with the Department of Telecommunications’ goal of creating a Telecom Innovation, Research and Training Centre (TIRTC) at BRBRAITT. This center is envisioned as a hub for research, product innovation, and entrepreneurship in the telecom sector.
“From local to global — India will not just make in India, but make for the world. Jabalpur will be at the heart of this transformation,” said Scindia.
Here are some details about what each company will offer under the agreements:
- **Ericsson** will establish a 5G Centre of Excellence at BRBRAITT. This center will provide hands-on and online training to over 2,000 students each year.
- **Qualcomm** will create the Qualcomm Institute, focusing on advanced 5G and AI skills. They will sponsor the first 100 participants and offer premium online content and internships.
- **Cisco** plans to expand the Cisco Networking Academy, making networking, cybersecurity, and IT training accessible across the country, especially for non-profit educational institutions.
- **Nokia** will set up a 5G Centre of Excellence and an AI/ML Lab to train 300 students annually, offering joint certification from BRBRAITT and Nokia.
Dr. Neeraj Mittal, the Secretary of Telecom, emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships. This initiative aims to benefit not just students but also telecom staff and service providers. Training programs will range from short two-week courses to more intensive 84-hour programs.
With an initial investment exceeding ₹1 crore, these collaborations will support key programs like Digital India and Skill India. They aim to make Jabalpur a central hub for cutting-edge telecom education and innovation.
In addition, a recent survey by the Telecom Sector Skill Council revealed that over 60% of telecom companies face skill shortages. This initiative directly addresses that gap, preparing students for roles in a rapidly evolving industry.
Such programs reflect a growing trend towards collaboration between educational institutions and tech companies. As the tech landscape evolves, initiatives like this are crucial for keeping pace with global demands.
For more details on this initiative, you can check out the full report from the [Telecom Sector Skill Council](https://www.tssc.gov.in/).
