Anticipated improvements for BSNL: Collaboration with four global tech heavyweights confirmed

In a groundbreaking move, Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia has announced a strategic alliance between Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and four world-renowned tech companies: Ericsson, Qualcomm, Cisco, and Nokia. This partnership aims to accelerate India's digital transformation by enhancing the telecom workforce's skills in 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), networking, and digital technologies.

The collaboration will primarily be implemented through BSNL’s Bharat Ratna Bhim Rao Ambedkar Institute of Telecom Training (BRBRAITT) in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, under the Department of Telecommunications’ broader vision to establish a Telecom Innovation, Research and Training Centre (TIRTC).

Detailed plan and specific roles of each company:

Ericsson: Will establish a 5G Centre of Excellence at BRBRAITT, delivering hands-on training supported by world-class online modules. This aims to provide exposure to global best practices and utilization of BSNL's telecom infrastructure. Ericsson is expected to train over 2000 students annually with practical 5G skills.
Nokia: Tasked with training around 300 students annually, focusing on 5G and AI applications. Nokia will provide specialized courses to develop skills in these advanced technologies.
Qualcomm: Will create a dedicated institute within the training facility that concentrates on upskilling in 5G and AI areas. This signifies a commitment to focused, intensive training modules.
Cisco: Responsible for providing digital learning resources to enhance training quality and accessibility nationwide, facilitating broader digital skills development.

Anticipated benefits:

Development of a future-ready telecom workforce aligned with current and emerging digital technologies.
Empowerment of over 2000 students annually, equipping youth with industry-relevant skills to support India's digital and telecom infrastructure growth.
Support for national initiatives like Digital India, Skill India, Make in India, and Startup India, promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat) in the telecom sector.
Strengthening India's position as a global hub of telecom innovation and expertise, enhancing competitiveness and employment opportunities.
BSNL’s rejuvenation and increased profitability by investing in skill development aligned with cutting-edge telecom trends.

The collaboration's first phase has an investment exceeding ₹10 million, with programs ranging from short two-week modules to comprehensive 84-hour courses.

In addition, Cisco will expand its Networking Academy to democratize access to quality training in networking and cybersecurity at BRBRAITT. The curriculum includes intensive two-week modules and comprehensive 84-hour programs for students, working professionals, and public sector employees.

Nokia will collaborate with non-profit institutions to provide industry-relevant skills to learners across India. Ericsson will set up a 5G centre of excellence at BRBRAITT, providing hands-on training and world-class online modules.

This alliance strategically leverages the global expertise of Ericsson, Qualcomm, Nokia, and Cisco in delivering specialized training and resources to create a skilled workforce, which is critical for India's ongoing digital transformation and telecom sector growth. The initiative aims to encourage product innovation, prototyping, and telecom entrepreneurship, turning learners into creators of tech.

The minister stated that India's achievements in expanding affordable broadband, enabling digital payments, and using tech for governance have become case studies across the world. The ripple effect for consumers will be better connectivity, more innovative telecom solutions, and faster roll-out of next-gen services. Furthermore, the collaboration is expected to benefit local economies, especially in Madhya Pradesh, by providing increased employment opportunities. This partnership positions India as a global hub for telecom innovation and expertise.

Anticipated improvements for BSNL: Collaboration with four global tech heavyweights confirmed