Latest news with #SkillDevelopmentandEntrepreneurship
Time of India
7 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Govt launches SOAR initiative to equip school students with AI skills, featuring 15-hour modules for grades 6-12: Check all details here
The Indian government has rolled out the SOAR (Skilling for AI Readiness) programme, marking a significant step towards integrating artificial intelligence education into school curricula. This new initiative targets students from classes 6 to 12 and introduces three structured 15-hour modules to build AI literacy amongst young learners. The announcement came during the Bharat SkillNxt 2025 event held in New Delhi, which celebrated a decade of the Skill India Mission. Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, spoke to an audience of policymakers, educators, and industry representatives about the programme's importance. According to details about the programme published in the Press Information Bureau (PIB), he noted that India's school-going population, the world's largest, would soon demonstrate how students can not only learn about AI but actually use it in their everyday activities. Three key modules for student AI education The SOAR programme takes a phased approach to teaching AI concepts through three distinct 15-hour modules: AI to be aware serves as the introductory module, covering fundamental AI concepts and showing students how AI technologies already exist in their daily lives. Students will learn about different types of AI and gain basic understanding of the field. AI to acquire moves students beyond awareness into practical application. This second module focuses on AI programming basics and gives students direct experience with development tools commonly used in AI projects. AI to aspire completes the student journey by examining AI's ethical considerations, its effects on employment and society, and potential career paths in the sector. Teachers will receive their own dedicated training through AI for educators, a comprehensive 45-hour module that prepares them to deliver AI education effectively to their students. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo by Taboola by Taboola Bridging the digital divide The SOAR initiative specifically aims to provide equal access to AI education across India's varied geographical regions. By introducing AI concepts early in students' academic journey, the programme seeks to create opportunities for all learners, especially those from rural areas or communities with limited resources. This approach gives these students the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in an increasingly digital world. The integration of AI into school education reflects the government's broader strategy to develop a workforce ready for future challenges and capable of competing internationally. Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, Minister of State for Education, explained that this initiative supports the National Education Policy 2020, which prioritises skill development and vocational training as essential elements of India's educational approach. Global collaborations for a robust ecosystem The government has established several key partnerships to strengthen the SOAR initiative's impact. A notable memorandum of understanding has been signed between India's Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and the Government of the French Republic. This collaboration will support joint curriculum development, talent exchange programmes, and innovation-focused training to ensure India's AI education framework meets international standards. Shri Jitin Prasada, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, quoted by PIB, described these partnerships as crucial for India's development as a global technology and skills leader. "This initiative will empower our youth to compete, contribute, and lead, not just in India, but globally. We are investing in skills that change lives'. Empowering students and teachers alike The SOAR programme addresses both student learning and teacher preparation. The dedicated educator module ensures teachers have the necessary tools and knowledge to guide students through this rapidly evolving field. The initiative also emphasises inclusivity and diversity. As Dr. Majumdar highlighted, the programme is structured to benefit all students, with particular attention to encouraging girls' participation in STEM subjects. This aligns with the government's goal of creating better gender balance and representation in India's digital and technology sectors. A bold step toward "Viksit Bharat" The SOAR initiative goes beyond simply preparing students for AI-related careers—it aims to develop an entire generation that feels confident and capable of using technology to solve real problems. Introducing AI skills at the school level demonstrates India's commitment to becoming a developed nation with a workforce that can both meet job market demands and drive innovation in the global digital economy. As the SOAR initiative begins implementation, it is expected to establish India as home to the world's largest AI-ready school population. This positions the country to take a leading role in the technological transformation currently reshaping industries across the globe. Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
Indian Express
22-07-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
Ministry of Skill Development rolls out SOAR programme to introduce AI learning in Classes 6 to 12
The Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Jayant Chaudhary, today launched SOAR (Skilling for AI Readiness), a national programme designed to embed AI awareness and foundational learning among school students from Classes 6 to 12. SOAR includes three progressive 15-hour modules for students titled AI to be Aware, AI to Acquire, and AI to Aspire, and a 45-hour module for teachers titled AI for Educators. Addressing an event held in New Delhi, Minister Jayant Chaudhary said, India aspires to build the world's largest network of young learners actively engaging with artificial intelligence (AI). This vision includes school students not just learning about AI but applying it in meaningful, real-world contexts. He further added this would represent a significant step towards building a tech-driven, future-ready India. He also emphasised the government's long-term vision under 'Viksit Bharat 2047' and reiterated that India's skilling journey is central to national development. The programme covers topics like AI basics, generative AI, ethical use of technology, cybersecurity, and career pathways. The MSDE also operationalised KaushalVerse, the new Digital Enterprise Portal by the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET). The platform aims to streamline the regulatory framework in vocational training and make skill-related services more efficient and accessible. Another major launch was India's first and the world's largest outcomes-based development impact bond for skilling and employment—Skill Impact Bond (SIB). Led by MSDE through the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), the SIB has mobilised $14.4 million and aims to link skilling efforts more directly with employment outcomes The event also saw the signing of several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at strengthening public-private and international partnerships in skill development. One of the major agreements was signed between MSDE and the Government of the French Republic, focusing on collaboration in vocational education, joint curriculum development, Centres of Excellence, and cross-country training models. The Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) Una will train 120 candidates in Electrical Technician and Software Programming roles under PMKVY 4.0, focusing on deep-tech and IT-ITeS sectors. IIT Hyderabad will train 280 candidates in Sangareddy, Telangana, in Electronics, Hydrocarbon, and Capital Goods sectors for job roles like CNC Programmer and AI–ML Engineer. IIT Patna will train 1,440 candidates in Patna, Bihar, across sectors like agriculture, green jobs, and healthcare. Job roles include EV Service Technician, AR/VR Engineer, and Elderly Caretaker. NIT Agartala will deliver training for 370 candidates in West Tripura in areas such as Automotive IoT, Bamboo Work Artisan, and AI–Data Science. RRU will conduct training in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, for 240 candidates in job roles ranging from Yoga Wellness Trainer to Fire Safety Officer, combining digital and wellness-oriented skills. NSTI Mumbai signed an MoU with ICICI Foundation to support rural incubation and entrepreneurship through vocational training and project-based skilling. A series of Flexi MoUs were signed under the PMKVY institutional strengthening strategy with companies such as Dixon Technologies, Microsoft, and HCL, aimed at customising training in line with current industry requirements.
The Hindu
17-07-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
Minister assures global market for rural entrepreneurs
Union Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Chaudhary said that rural entrepreneurs would be empowered and their products would be made available in the global market. He was speaking after inaugurating a beneficiaries conclave of the Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) here on Thursday (July 17). He said that tribal entrepreneurs would be brought into the mainstream. As AI technology grows, acquiring skill development will enable the younger generation to become better job seekers, he said. Mr. Chaudhary also inaugurated Malappuram Municipality's smart anganwadis project. All anganwadis in the municipality were made air-conditioned and smart. He said that anganwadis played a key role in fostering social interaction among children before they start going to school. Around 2,000 JSS beneficiaries took part in the function. As many as 300 beneficiaries were given certificates under the PM Vishwakarma scheme. Entrepreneurs who attained excellence and JSS resource persons were felicitated. Cards for artisans were also distributed at the ceremony, which also saw the launch of various products of Gotramrutham tribal farmer producer company. An exhibition featuring handicrafts and products from various entrepreneurs also marked the occasion. JSS chairman P.V. Abdul Wahab, MP, presided over the function. Malappuram municipal chairman Mujeeb Kaderi, Kerala Academy for Skills Excellence chief executive officer T.V. Vinod, Regional Directorate of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship head C. Yuvaraj, Malappuram JSS director V. Umer Koya and district panchayat vice president Ismail Moothedam spoke.
Business Upturn
10-07-2025
- Business
- Business Upturn
TP-Link India Boosts Innovation with Bengaluru R&D Centre, Mumbai Incubation Launch
TP-Link India, the country's leading Wi-Fi and connectivity solutions provider, has announced major expansion plans to deepen its commitment to India's growing digital ecosystem. The company launched its first-ever incubation centre in India alongside a new Mumbai headquarters and revealed plans to establish a state-of-the-art Global Capability Centre (GCC) for R&D in Bengaluru. The newly opened Mumbai incubation centre, inaugurated by Maharashtra's Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Shri Mangal Prabhat Lodha, will provide hands-on access to next-generation technologies and host training sessions for students, startups, and innovators. It also aims to foster entrepreneurship by offering access to tools, connectivity, and mentoring—helping young minds build future-ready tech solutions. TP-Link also plans to increase its India headcount by 30% over the next year, a move aimed at fuelling product innovation and customer service across the country. The upcoming Bengaluru R&D GCC will play a pivotal role in developing AI/ML-enabled networking solutions, firmware upgrades, and enterprise technology for both domestic and global markets, including through its business solutions brand, Omada. 'It is great to see TP-Link India encourage a culture of research, with the launch of their incubation centre for students in the new headquarters in Mumbai. We hope that students will benefit from this incubation centre and help build a truly digital India,' said Shri Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of Maharashtra. 'We believe that empowering the next generation of change-makers is key to sustainable growth and societal progress. By investing in this centre, we are investing in the future — a future driven by creativity, collaboration, and bold thinking. We invite startups, academic institutions, industry partners, and the broader community to join us in this journey of innovation. Together, we can shape a more dynamic and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem,' said Sanjay Sehgal, CEO and Managing Director, TP-Link India. To complement its infrastructure and innovation push, the company has also committed to expanding its service centre network with 20 new centres focused on Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, positioning TP-Link India as a leader in nationwide after-sales service coverage. The new Mumbai HQ spans over 20,000 square feet with a seating capacity for 150+ employees and will serve as the central hub for TP-Link's operations in India. Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Hans India
16-06-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
Union Minister lauds CM's Skills University initiative
UnionMinister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Chaudhary met Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy at his Jubilee Hills residence on Sunday to discuss various issues related to skill development in the state. He complimented the government for setting up of Skills University. The Chief Minister briefed the Union Minister on the steps being taken in the state regarding skill development. Jayant Chaudhary said that the central government will support skill development in the state. The Union Minister had arrived in the city to attend the Kaushal Manthan programme on Monday.
