BSNL joins hands with Ericsson, Qualcomm, Cisco and Nokia to drive 5G, AI, and cybersecurity skilling

In a major push to create industry-ready talent in next-generation telecom technologies, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with fEricsson India, Qualcomm Technologies, Cisco Systems, and Nokia Solutions and Networks India.

Telecom Innovation, Research and Training Centre is now all set to become a hub for advanced communications in collaboration with global tech leaders.  Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia announced that the initiative will provide advanced training in 5G, AI/ML, networking, and cybersecurity. The programmes will run at Bharat Ratna Bhim Rao Ambedkar Institute of Telecom Training (BRBRAITT)  located in Jabalpur.

Courses will range from short-term to long-term programmes.

Key initiatives under the MoUs:

• Ericsson India will set up a 5G Centre of Excellence at BRBRAITT, offering hands-on and online training to over 2,000 students annually under its Ericsson Educate programme.
• Qualcomm Technologies will set up the Qualcomm Institute which will focus on 5G and AI training and offer internships while providing online learning at the same time.

In the first year, Qualcomm will sponsor training for 100 participants.

• Cisco Systems will expand its Networking Academy Programme to train youth in networking, cybersecurity, and IT infrastructure, providing free access to digital curriculum and tools across non-profit educational institutions.
• Nokia Solutions and Networks will help create a 5G Centre of Excellence and AI/ML Lab, training 300 students annually and offering joint certification with BRBRAITT.

The collaborations reinforce India’s flagship programmes — Digital India, Skilling India, Make in India, Startup India, and Atmanirbhar Bharat — while positioning BRBRAITT as a centre of excellence for advanced telecom skills.