BSNL Collaborates with Ericsson, Qualcomm, Cisco, and Nokia
In a landmark initiative aimed at enhancing India’s digital workforce, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has entered into strategic partnerships with four leading global technology firms: Ericsson India Pvt. Ltd., Qualcomm Technologies Inc., Cisco Systems, and Nokia Solutions and Networks India Pvt. Ltd. The agreements, signed in New Delhi in the presence of Union Minister of Communications, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, are designed to bolster the country’s skilling ecosystem and accelerate its digital transformation. The training programs will be conducted at BSNL’s premier institute, Bharat Ratna Bhim Rao Ambedkar Institute of Telecom Training (BRBRAITT) in Jabalpur.
Strategic Partnerships for Skill Development
The newly signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) are part of a broader initiative by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to establish a Telecom Innovation, Research and Training Centre (TIRTC) at BRBRAITT. This center aims to cultivate a skilled workforce equipped with telecom-specific research and development capabilities. The TIRTC will align with the Indian government’s vision of “Skill India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat,” focusing on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the telecom sector. The partnerships will facilitate advanced training in areas such as 5G, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and networking, ensuring that the workforce is prepared for future challenges.
The MoUs were signed by key executives from BSNL and the partner companies, including Shri A. Robert J. Ravi, Managing Director of BSNL, and representatives from Ericsson, Qualcomm, Cisco, and Nokia. The signing ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including government officials and industry leaders, underscoring the collaborative effort between the public and private sectors to enhance India’s telecom capabilities.
Training Initiatives and Their Impact
The training initiatives outlined in the MoUs are expected to significantly impact the telecom landscape in India. Union Minister Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia emphasized that the program aims to train over 2,000 students annually, with an initial investment exceeding ₹1 crore. The courses will range from short two-week modules to comprehensive 84-hour programs, positioning Jabalpur as a hub for advanced technology education. The minister highlighted the importance of collaboration between government and industry, stating that such partnerships are essential for turning the aspirations of the youth into reality.
Secretary of Telecom, Dr. Neeraj Mittal, noted that this initiative represents a unique public-private partnership. It will not only train BSNL staff but also benefit students and employees from various telecom service providers. The initiative aims to enhance employment opportunities and contribute to the economic growth of Madhya Pradesh and the nation as a whole.
Key Features of the MoUs
Each technology partner brings unique contributions to the training initiative. Ericsson India will establish a dedicated 5G Centre of Excellence at BRBRAITT, providing hands-on training and online learning modules to over 2,000 students annually. Qualcomm Technologies Inc. will set up a Qualcomm Institute, focusing on advanced training in 5G and AI, while Cisco Systems will enhance skills in networking and cybersecurity through its Networking Academy Program. Nokia Solutions and Networks India Pvt. Ltd. will support the creation of a 5G Centre of Excellence and an AI/ML Lab, training 300 students each year.
These collaborations are aligned with India’s flagship missions, including Digital India, Skilling India, and Make in India. By equipping the youth with essential skills in next-generation telecom technologies, the initiative aims to foster a self-reliant and globally competitive digital economy. In the long run, the program seeks to establish a consortium of Indian and global tech stakeholders to drive innovation and research in advanced telecom domains.
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