New Delhi, Aug 20 (NationPress) Union Minister of Communications Jyotiraditya M. Scindia regards BSNL's strategic alliances with leading global technology firms Ericsson, Qualcomm, Cisco Systems, and Nokia as a groundbreaking initiative that will enhance India's telecom infrastructure and prepare the nation's youth with essential skills for the future.

These collaborations, aimed at advancing India's digital evolution and fortifying the skilling ecosystem, will introduce cutting-edge training programs in 5G, AI/ML, networking, and digital technologies at BSNL's premier training facility, the Bharat Ratna Bhim Rao Ambedkar Institute of Telecom Training (BRBRAITT) located in Jabalpur.

The minister stated in a media release that India is not only committed to manufacturing locally but is also gearing up to serve the global market. He emphasized that Jabalpur will be a pivotal center for this transformation.

In alignment with ongoing initiatives such as Digital India, Skill India, Make in India, and Startup India, this partnership positions India as a forefront hub for telecom innovation and expertise. He further noted that it revitalizes Aatmanirbhar Bharat, with BSNL marking a significant turnaround, achieving consistent quarterly profits after 18 years.

As part of the collaboration announced last week, Ericsson will establish a 5G center of excellence at BRBRAITT, providing hands-on training alongside world-class online modules, allowing students to engage with global best practices while utilizing BSNL's strong telecom infrastructure.

Qualcomm will focus on advanced courses in 5G and AI, offering internships and sponsoring training for the first 100 students, thereby enhancing employability and creating pathways to careers in high-demand technology fields.

Cisco will expand its acclaimed Networking Academy to broaden access to quality training in networking and cybersecurity.

Through partnerships with non-profit organizations, it will guarantee that learners throughout India, regardless of their geographic location, can acquire industry-relevant skills. Nokia will create a 5G and AI-ML Lab, emphasizing training in core networks and emerging telecommunications applications, with joint certification from Nokia and BSNL, boosting graduates' industry credibility.

The curriculum, ranging from intensive two-week modules to comprehensive 84-hour programs, is tailored for students, working professionals, and public sector employees. Beyond just skilling, this initiative will inspire product innovation, prototyping, and telecom entrepreneurship, transforming learners into creators rather than mere consumers of technology.

The minister pointed out that local economies, particularly in Madhya Pradesh, will reap the benefits of increased job opportunities, while India as a whole will develop a workforce capable of competing on a global scale. For consumers, the benefits will manifest as enhanced connectivity, innovative telecom solutions, and expedited rollout of next-generation services.

"India's success in expanding affordable broadband, facilitating digital payments like UPI, and leveraging technology for governance has become a global reference point. The upcoming wave of digital expansion will be characterized by technologies like 5G, AI, IoT, and cybersecurity, and India will not merely observe; it will lead, innovate, and establish global standards," the minister stated.