As the demand for skilled professionals in emerging technologies surges in the country, the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), along with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar, has recently launched a certified minor programme in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML). This course aims to leverage AI/ML across various sectors, including the manufacturing industry, and assist class XII students and those from engineering or polytechnic backgrounds in finding suitable jobs at the three upcoming semiconductor manufacturing units in Dholera and Sanand, Gujarat, and a semiconductor packaging unit in Morigaon, Assam. AI, with its capabilities in data processing, pattern recognition, and learning from experience, is a driving force behind innovation in semiconductor technology. The integration of AI technologies has also opened new market opportunities within the semiconductor industry.
Widening Job Prospects
The collaboration between IIT Ropar, Masai School, and NSDC for the minor programme aims to bolster job creation within India. Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO of NSDC and MD of NSDC International, states, “Through this newly designed curriculum and hands-on training options, students will acquire the precise skills demanded in the semiconductor industries. The programme empowers students with both technical proficiency and the soft skills essential for success. This synergy between academia and industry enhances graduates’ employability and aligns with India’s aspiration to become self-reliant in semiconductor manufacturing, thereby reducing dependence on imports and stimulating economic growth.”
The certified minor programme will address skill gaps by driving innovation and creating jobs, according to Tripathi. “Moreover, by tapping into the projected annual growth rate of over 20% in India’s semiconductor market, the collaborative initiative will create sufficient talent to meet industry demands. Industry integration initiatives, such as internships and guest lectures, provide students with invaluable exposure to real-world challenges and best practices, enhancing their readiness to contribute to semiconductor companies after graduation,” he adds.
Eligibility and Programme Structure
Students from any polytechnic college, Industrial Training Institute (ITI), private or government college, and diploma holders are eligible to apply for the one-year programme. Rajeev Ahuja, director of IIT Ropar, explains, “Most engineers want to work with multinational companies or in the IT sector, leading to the neglect of manufacturing units due to a lack of technological upgradations. This course aims to increase job prospects for core engineers from various technical institutes who are either not finding suitable jobs or are interested in upskilling. This course will provide AI/ML skills that can help them find jobs, including in the manufacturing industry.”
During the programme, students will attend lectures at the IIT Ropar campus and will be evaluated by the institute’s faculty. The course will include seven modules: Fundamentals of Prompt Engineering, Introduction to Machine Learning, Data Handling and Processing, Neural Networks & Deep Learning, Natural Language Processing, Functioning of Large Language Models (LLMs), and Capstone Project. Credit-linked micro-specialisation in AI/ML is the most in-demand field, leading to high-paying tech jobs.
