Microsoft Inks MoU With MSDE To Empower Youth With Digital And Cybersecurity Skills
Microsoft signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Directorate General of Training (DGT), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) to train students and educators at government-led Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and National Skills Training Institutions (NSTIs)..
Under this partnership, Microsoft will offer a diverse range of courses, including AI, cloud computing, web development and cybersecurity skills training to approximately 6,000 students and 200 faculty members. By equipping students with industry-relevant skills, the initiative will look to enhance their employability and connect them with suitable job opportunities in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
The training program will encompass various aspects of digital proficiency, such as AI fluency and fundamentals, cloud computing, and web development. It goes beyond theoretical knowledge by providing opportunities for students to learn from industry experts, engage in deep-dive sessions, and participate in multifaceted capstone projects.
Furthermore, the initiative includes train-the-trainer workshops to empower faculty members with expertise in AI fluency and fundamentals, cloud computing, web development, Power BI, and soft skills. These trained faculty members will subsequently train ITI students attending computer operator and programming assistant (COPA) training programs.
In an effort to promote cybersecurity skills among women, the existing CyberShikshaa program will be expanded to encompass 10 NSTIs. This expansion will provide basic and intermediate cybersecurity skills training to female students and educators, addressing the growing need for cybersecurity professionals in today's digital landscape.
The initiative has garnered praise from Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Minister of State (MoS) for the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and the Ministry of Electronics and IT. He emphasised the importance of nurturing talent and providing young Indians with access to relevant skills in the rapidly changing digital age. Chandrasekhar also highlighted the government's commitment to safeguarding digital citizens from cybersecurity challenges.
Jean-Philippe Courtois, executive vice president and president of National Transformation Partnerships at Microsoft, expressed his satisfaction with the collaboration, noting that empowering India's youth with digital skills is crucial for economic resilience and a brighter future.
To facilitate employment opportunities, Microsoft will collaborate with recruitment and placement agencies, as well as organise statewide job fairs, to connect successful learners from this project with suitable job placements.
