Microsoft and the Indian National Institute of Electronics & Information Technology (NIELIT) have announced a collaboration to enhance access to skills for jobs through CyberShikshaa and Ready4Cybersecurity programs to bridge the cybersecurity skills gap in India. This move is primarily at underserved youth, women, and jobseekers from remote areas with a special focus on Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and states in the North-East region of India.
Dr. Madan Mohan Tripathi, Director General, NIELIT, said, “Recognizing the challenges owing to the lack of trained cybersecurity professionals, NIELIT is committed to training people for in-demand jobs, especially in remote regions, so that they can participate in today’s digital economy. This will enable a robust pool of skilled professionals who can help protect organizations from cyber threats. NIELIT welcomes this collaboration with Microsoft, which will not only multiply the skill sets through these training programs but also provide opportunities in terms of employment to the youth of the country.”
Dr. Rohini Srivathsa, National Technology Officer, Microsoft India, said, “The threat landscape is becoming more sophisticated, and we need more diversity in our workforce to solve cybersecurity challenges swiftly and innovatively. Since its inception in 2018, the CyberShikshaa program has driven tremendous impact in skilling for the employability of women and underserved youth – and is now expanding to reach 45,000 learners over the next three years. We are delighted to partner with NIELIT and enable greater access to skills for jobs through this collaboration.”
Microsoft’s support will include curriculum content, certifications, and mentorship opportunities besides providing training grants. Approximately 3,500 learners will undergo training and receive internship or employment opportunities for in-demand cybersecurity jobs.