Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has signed strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with four leading global technology companies: Cisco Systems, Nokia Solutions and Networks India Pvt. Ltd., Qualcomm Technologies Inc., and Ericsson India Pvt. Ltd.
This is said to be a major step towards developing skilled manpower that is ready for the industry. These collaborations will introduce advanced 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) in Jabalpur, with the goal of quickening India’s digital transformation and bolstering the skilling ecosystem.
This move is a step in the direction of a larger plan by the Ministry of Communications’ Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to create a Telecom Innovation, Research and Training Center (TIRTC) at BRBRAITT.
In line with the Hon. Prime Minister’s vision of Skill India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, TIRTC is envisioned as an industry-led national hub that would concentrate on cultivating telecom-specific R&D expertise and a workforce prepared for the future.
Long-term, TIRTC will also encourage telecom entrepreneurship, product creation, and prototyping.
The Key Initiatives Under These MoUs Are:
- As part of this initiative, Ericsson India will help establish a dedicated Ericsson 5G Centre of Excellence at BRBRAITT to provide hands-on 5G training as well as online learning modules under the Ericsson Educate Program to 2000+ students annually. The students undergoing the 5G Onsite training will benefit from the classroom infrastructure being provided by BSNL. Students undergoing the online training part of the Ericsson Educate program, will benefit from Ericsson’s global curriculum, trainers, and lab facilities — creating a world-class learning environment aligned with national priorities.
- Qualcomm Technologies Inc. will set up a Qualcomm Institute at BRBRAITT, focusing on advanced 5G and AI training for students, BSNL trainers, and government stakeholders. The programme will include premium online content, live sessions, and internships. Qualcomm will sponsor training for the first 100 participants in the inaugural year. This initiative aims to position BRBRAITT as a hub for advanced, scalable, and industry-relevant digital skill development.
- Cisco Systems will leverage its Cisco Networking Academy Program to enhance skills in networking, cybersecurity, and IT infrastructure. Cisco will provide free access to online curriculum and digital tools, while BSNL will coordinate implementation across non-profit educational institutions nationwide — promoting equitable access to digital learning. The collaboration seeks to create a digitally enabled, job-ready youth workforce.
- Nokia Solutions and Networks India Pvt. Ltd. will support the creation of a 5G Centre of Excellence and AI/ML Lab at BRBRAITT. The programme will train 300 students annually in 5G radio, core networks, and AI/ML applications. It includes a joint certification programme by Nokia and BRBRAITT, with support from the Telecom Sector Skill Council.
The Hon’ble Union Minister of Communications and DoNER, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Secretary (Telecom) Dr. Neeraj Mittal, senior DoT officials, BSNL leadership, and representatives from partner corporations were present at the ceremony in New Delhi when the Memorandums of Understanding were signed.
These partnerships highlight DoT’s dedication to developing deep expertise in next-generation telecom technologies and provide strong support for India’s major initiatives, including Digital India, Skilling India, Make in India, Startup India, and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
This project will contribute to the development of an independent and globally competitive digital future by giving India’s young essential future-tech skills. The initiative’s long-term goal is to bring together a large group of Indian and international tech stakeholders to promote research, innovation, and training in cutting-edge telecom fields.
Leadership Comments
Quote from Hon’ble Minister Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia:
“This collaboration between BSNL and leading global technology companies is a landmark step in building a skilled and future-ready telecom workforce. It reflects the Government’s commitment to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital empowerment through industry-academia partnerships aligned with the vision of Digital India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.”
Nitin Bansal, Managing Director, Ericsson India: “This collaboration is an investment in building a future-ready workforce to lead innovation in 5G, IoT, and advanced telecom technologies.”
