NSDC, Cultus and AWS launch nationwide cloud and AI skilling initiative for 1.5 lakh learners
The programme will be delivered entirely online across all states and Union Territories, giving youth outside major metros a pathway from foundational training to AWS certification and employer-linked interview opportunities.
The initiative will provide 1.5 lakh learners with foundational cloud and AI literacy through AWS digital training content, while 10,000 participants will receive intensive, job-oriented training through the AWS re/Start programme.
NEW DELHI: The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and Cultus Education have launched a nationwide cloud and artificial intelligence skilling initiative in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS), targeting 1.5 lakh learners across India, with a focus on youth in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
The initiative will provide 1.5 lakh learners with foundational cloud and AI literacy through AWS digital training content, while 10,000 participants will receive intensive, job-oriented training through the AWS re/Start programme.
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary said expanding access to future skills in Tier 2 and Tier 3 towns would be important to building an inclusive and future-ready workforce as India works towards Viksit Bharat 2047.
The programme is being delivered entirely online through Cultus Education, the NSDC-selected delivery partner, and will cover all states and Union Territories. It is designed to address gaps in access to globally recognised technical training, employer connections and industry credentials among youth in underserved communities.
AWS re/Start is a free, cohort-based workforce development programme that provides structured training in cloud computing and helps participants connect with employment opportunities at local employers. Graduates of the programme will also gain access to qualified interview opportunities.
Learners will initially undertake AWS digital training content covering foundational cloud and AI skills. Participants who demonstrate readiness can progress to AWS re/Start, where they will receive instructor-led training covering cloud infrastructure, security, networking and AI fundamentals.
The intensive programme will also cover programming, networking, security and relational databases through hands-on labs, real-world scenarios and coursework, supported by professional mentors and accredited instructors.
Participants completing the learning journey will earn an AWS Certification, an industry-recognised credential validating cloud computing skills, and will gain access to qualified interview opportunities through connections with local employers.
The programme will conclude with a National Hackathon, where participants will showcase cloud and AI solutions before hiring managers, industry leaders and other stakeholders.
Rani Burchmore, APJC Lead, AWS Skilling & Social Impact, said the partnership with NSDC and Cultus Education would help build a diverse cloud workforce while enabling individuals, organisations and communities to benefit from access to in-demand skills.
Nalin Singh, Group Managing Director, Cultus Education, said the initiative was focused on ensuring that skilling translates into credentials, confidence and meaningful career opportunities, particularly beyond major metropolitan centres.
Prashant Sinha, Chief Operating Officer, NSDC, was also present at the launch.
The initiative is intended to create pathways from foundational digital literacy to industry-recognised credentials and employment without requiring learners from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities to relocate to metropolitan centres.
