BSNL Partners with Ericsson, Qualcomm, Cisco, Nokia to Launch Advanced Digital Skilling Hub in Jabalpur
Announcing the initiative on Monday, Union Minister of Communications and DoNER Jyotiraditya M. Scindia called it “a landmark step in building a skilled and future-ready telecom workforce.”
New Delhi, August 11: — In a major push to create an industry-ready workforce for India’s telecom sector, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has signed strategic MoUs with Ericsson India, Qualcomm Technologies, Cisco Systems, and Nokia Solutions and Networks to roll out advanced training in 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and networking.
The collaboration will be implemented at BSNL’s premier training institute — Bharat Ratna Bhim Rao Ambedkar Institute of Telecom Training (BRBRAITT) in Jabalpur — as part of a broader plan to establish the Telecom Innovation, Research and Training Centre (TIRTC). Envisioned as a national centre of excellence, TIRTC will focus on cutting-edge communications, R&D, and industry-aligned skill development, supporting flagship missions like Skill India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Announcing the initiative, Union Minister of Communications and DoNER Jyotiraditya M. Scindia called it “a landmark step in building a skilled and future-ready telecom workforce.” He said the programme, backed by leading global technology companies, will train over 2,000 students annually, with Phase 1 investments exceeding ₹1 crore. “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,” he added.
Secretary (Telecom) Dr. Neeraj Mittal termed it a unique public-private partnership model that will train public sector staff, telecom professionals, and students through short, medium, and long-term courses. “This will boost employment and economic growth, not just in Madhya Pradesh but across the country,” he said.
Under the MoUs:
- Ericsson India will set up a 5G Centre of Excellence at BRBRAITT, offering hands-on training and online modules under its global Ericsson Educate programme.
- Qualcomm Technologies will establish a Qualcomm Institute focusing on 5G and AI training, with internships and free inaugural-year training for 100 participants.
- Cisco Systems will use its Cisco Networking Academy to enhance skills in networking, cybersecurity, and IT infrastructure, offering free online curriculum and digital tools.
- Nokia will support a 5G Centre of Excellence and AI/ML Lab, training 300 students annually and offering joint certifications with the Telecom Sector Skill Council.
The initiative will equip India’s youth with future-tech skills, foster telecom entrepreneurship, and drive innovation in advanced communications, with the long-term goal of building a global training and research consortium.
