Nasscom Foundation and MathCo Launch AI Training Initiative for Neurodivergent Youth
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Synopsis
On February 13, Nasscom Foundation, in partnership with MathCo, unveiled a skill development programme targeting neurodivergent youth, focusing on data annotation to enhance their employment opportunities in AI and ML sectors.
Key Takeaways
- Launch of a training programme for neurodivergent youth.
- Focus on data annotation and essential soft skills.
- 50 participants targeted, split into two batches.
- Goal of 60% internship and job placement.
- Supportive mentoring and sensitization for employers.
New Delhi, Feb 13 (NationPress) On Thursday, Nasscom Foundation, in collaboration with MathCo, introduced a unique skill development initiative aimed at training ‘neurodivergent’ youth in data annotation.
Typically, a ‘neurodivergent’ individual refers to someone on the autism spectrum, processing information in a manner that diverges from the norm.
This initiative seeks to boost employment prospects for these individuals in the burgeoning arenas of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML).
The programme is designed to train 50 neurodivergent participants, focusing on both technical expertise and essential soft skills. Training will occur in two segments, with 25 individuals in each group.
Participants will gain insights into data annotation, a pivotal skill for AI models, alongside mentorship and confidence-building resources to ensure their workplace success.
“We believe that a truly inclusive India begins with creating accessible and empowering environments,” stated Jyoti Sharma, CEO of Nasscom Foundation.
“Learning is the first step toward empowerment, and continuous learning is key to staying ahead in an evolving world,” added Aditya Kumbakonam, COO and Co-founder of MathCo.
He remarked that these young individuals will seize this opportunity and continue to evolve as they forge their careers.
Nasscom Foundation will also provide continuous mentorship and organize sensitization sessions for employers to foster a supportive atmosphere for neurodivergent employees.
The objective is to secure internships and job placements for at least 60 percent of participants in the IT and IT-enabled services (ITES) sectors.
Data annotation, which entails labeling and tagging data for AI training, is a highly sought-after skill as AI applications proliferate across various industries.
By equipping ‘neurodivergent’ youth with this competency, the programme aspires to create new career pathways and promote a more inclusive workforce.
Recently, Nasscom Foundation, in conjunction with NITI Aayog, announced its commitment to digitally empower one lakh lives in India’s Aspirational Blocks.
