NEW DELHI: Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has signed MoUs with Ericsson, Qualcomm, Cisco, and Nokia to launch advanced skilling programs in 5G, AI, cybersecurity, and networking at its apex training institute, BRBRAITT Jabalpur. The initiative, unveiled by Union Minister of Communications and DoNER Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, is a step toward establishing the Telecom Innovation, Research and Training Centre (TIRTC) as a national hub for telecom R&D and skills development.
TIRTC will offer short- and long-term courses, training over 2,000 students annually, with Phase 1 investments exceeding ₹1 crore. Ericsson will set up a 5G Centre of Excellence, Qualcomm will establish a dedicated institute for 5G and AI, Cisco will expand networking and cybersecurity training through its Networking Academy, and Nokia will support a 5G and AI/ML lab.
Calling the project a “landmark step,” Scindia said it would position Jabalpur as a hub for advanced telecom education and help India “make for the world.” Secretary (Telecom) Dr. Neeraj Mittal said the public-private collaboration would benefit students, trainers, and telecom sector professionals nationwide.
The partnerships align with national missions including Digital India, Skill India, and Atmanirbhar Bharat, aiming to create a future-ready, globally competitive telecom workforce.
