Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has taken a significant step to empower Indian youth with cutting-edge technical skills by partnering with global leaders like Ericsson India, Qualcomm Technologies, Cisco Systems, and Nokia Solutions and Networks India. These partnerships, formalized through Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), aim to provide advanced training in 5G, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and networking at the BRBRAITT (Bharat Ratna Bhimrao Ambedkar Institute of Telecom Training) in Jabalpur. This initiative is designed to equip young Indians with skills for the digital age and support the Digital India mission.

In this article, we’ll break down this BSNL initiative in simple terms, explain what it offers, who can benefit, and why it’s a game-changer for India’s youth and the nation’s digital future. The goal is to make it relatable, engaging, and feel like it’s written by a person, not a machine.
The MoUs (Memorandums of Understanding): Who’s Involved and Why?
BSNL has signed agreements with Ericsson, Qualcomm, Cisco, and Nokia to train young talent in 5G, AI/ML, and networking. The main aim is to prepare youth for jobs in the fast-growing tech industry and make India a global leader in digital innovation. Let’s look at each partner’s role:
- Ericsson India: They will set up a 5G Centre of Excellence at BRBRAITT, Jabalpur. This center will train over 2,000 students annually through hands-on and online courses, using 5G equipment and a global curriculum to teach real-world skills.
- Qualcomm Technologies: They will establish a Qualcomm Institute to offer premium training in 5G and AI, including online content, live sessions, and internships. In the first year, 100 participants will get sponsored training.
- Cisco Systems: Through its Networking Academy Program, Cisco will provide free online courses in networking, cybersecurity, and IT infrastructure, along with tools to make learning accessible to all.
- Nokia India: They will build a 5G and AI/ML lab to train 300 students each year. Nokia and BRBRAITT will also issue joint certificates, boosting job prospects.
These partnerships will transform BRBRAITT into a hub for industry-driven training, aligning with Digital India’s goal of creating a skilled workforce to drive the country’s digital economy.
Ericsson Press Release – Ericsson strengthens its commitment to train students on 5G and IoT technologies
Why BRBRAITT, Jabalpur?
BRBRAITT is Asia’s largest telecom training institute, with an 83-year legacy of excellence in telecom education. Located in Jabalpur, it’s known for training BSNL staff, technical experts, and youth at both national and international levels.
What makes BRBRAITT special? It has state-of-the-art labs, 5G and AI/ML practical training facilities, and modern digital tools. The institute is equipped to teach advanced courses in 5G, AI, networking, and cybersecurity. With global partners like Ericsson, Qualcomm, and Nokia, BRBRAITT will offer premium training and industry exposure, preparing youth to compete on a global stage and contribute to Digital India.
What Will the Training Cover in this BSNL Training?
The training programs at BRBRAITT will include a range of courses designed to give students both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. These courses are tailored to meet industry needs and prepare youth for real-world challenges. Here’s what they’ll learn:
- 5G Networking and Architecture: This course covers the basics of 5G, including New Radio (NR), network slicing (dividing networks for efficiency), and 5G core network design. Students will also learn how 5G base stations and Radio Access Networks (RAN) work.
- Radio Access Network (RAN): This focuses on radio signal processing, MIMO technology (which boosts signal speed and quality), and spectrum allocation. Practical sessions will let students work with real radio hardware and software.
- Software-Defined Networks (SDN) and Network Functions Virtualization (NFV): These courses teach how to manage networks using software, making them flexible and scalable.
- AI/ML for Networks: Students will learn how Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning can optimize networks, detect issues, and predict maintenance needs.
- Cybersecurity: This course covers network security, threat detection, firewalls, encryption, and strategies to protect against cyber-attacks.
These courses combine classroom learning with practical training, guided by industry experts. This approach ensures students gain skills that make them job-ready and valuable to the Digital India mission.
Who Can Benefit in this BSNL Training?
This BSNL training is ideal for:
- Engineering graduates, especially in electronics, telecom, computer science, or IT.
- IT professionals looking to upgrade their skills in 5G, AI/ML, networking, or cybersecurity.
- Diploma holders and technical trainees seeking practical knowledge to boost their careers.
This program is perfect for anyone wanting to stay ahead in the digital world, offering skills that align with industry demands and open doors to better job opportunities.
Training Format: Online vs. Offline
The training will follow a hybrid model, blending online and offline learning to make it flexible and effective:
- Online Component: Basic concepts and the latest industry trends will be taught through online sessions, making it accessible to students regardless of location or schedule.
- Offline Component: Hands-on training will take place in BRBRAITT’s advanced labs, where students will work with 5G equipment, software-defined networks, and AI/ML tools.
The program will also include project-based learning, where students tackle real-world problems to build practical skills. Upon completion, participants will receive industry-recognized certificates, enhancing their career prospects.
Job and Internship Opportunities
One of the biggest advantages of this program is its focus on job placement and internships. The partner companies will play a key role:
- Ericsson will prepare students for telecom jobs through its 5G Centre of Excellence.
- Qualcomm will offer internships in AI and 5G, giving students real-world experience.
- Cisco will support careers in networking and cybersecurity.
- Nokia will train students for high-skill roles through its 5G and AI/ML lab.
Graduates can pursue roles like Telecom Network Engineer, Network Operator, Cybersecurity Specialist, or AI/ML Engineer. This initiative aligns with the growing demand for 5G and digital careers in India, ensuring youth are ready for the job market.
Contribution to Digital India and Atmanirbhar Bharat

This training program is a big step toward Digital India and Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India). Skilled youth will strengthen India’s telecom and digital infrastructure, leading to:
- Better connectivity: Improved digital services in rural and urban areas.
- New opportunities: Support for projects like e-governance, digital payments, and smart cities.
- Economic growth: Modernizing industries through advanced technology.
By equipping youth with cutting-edge skills, this program will help India compete globally and build a robust digital economy, fulfilling the vision of a self-reliant nation.
Role of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP)
The PPP model is key to this initiative’s success. It combines the reliability of government institutions like BSNL with the technical expertise of private companies like Ericsson, Qualcomm, Cisco, and Nokia. This collaboration ensures high-quality training and industry exposure, preparing youth for global standards. PPP also supports nationwide training, infrastructure development, and inclusive digital services, driving Atmanirbhar Bharat by fostering innovation and a strong startup ecosystem.
Challenges and Solutions
Running a large-scale training program comes with challenges:
- Trainer Shortage: There’s a need for expert trainers in advanced technologies. Regular training for trainers will address this.
- High Costs: Maintaining modern labs and equipment is expensive. Government and private funding will be crucial.
- Quality Assurance: Courses must stay relevant to industry needs. Regular updates and industry feedback will ensure high standards.
By addressing these challenges, BSNL and its partners will make the training impactful and relevant.
RCR Wireless News – BSNL inks partnerships to launch 5G, AI training hub
Measuring Success: Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
The program’s success will be measured by:
- Placement Rate: Percentage of trainees who secure jobs.
- Certified Graduates: Number of students earning industry-recognized certificates.
- Industry Projects: Number of projects developed during training that are used in the industry.
- Follow-Up Skill Development: Ongoing programs to help trainees continue learning.
These metrics will ensure the program delivers quality training and aligns with industry needs.
Real-Life Examples and Case Studies
Previous pilot projects by BSNL and its partners show the potential of such training. For example, a project with Ericsson trained students in 5G and networking, resulting in over 85% securing internships or jobs in the telecom sector.
In a hypothetical case study, BRBRAITT trainees completed a telecom network optimization project, improving network efficiency by 20%. Such projects prepare youth for real-world challenges and contribute to Digital India’s goals.
Expert Opinions
“This partnership will not only provide world-class training in 5G, AI, and networking but also elevate India’s digital economy. Centers like BRBRAITT will be milestones in making youth globally competitive.”
— Senior BSNL Official
“Our goal is to connect technical education with industry needs. This collaboration will give trainees skills, practical experience, and better job opportunities.”
— Technology Head, Ericsson India
“Through our technology and training, Qualcomm is committed to making India’s young engineers world-class in AI and 5G.”
— Director, Qualcomm Technologies India
How to Apply: Eligibility, Fees, and Process
The application process for BRBRAITT’s 5G, AI/ML, and networking training is yet to be finalized but is expected to start soon.
- Eligibility: Likely to include engineering graduates, IT professionals, and technical diploma holders.
- Fees: Details are not yet available, but some courses may be free or subsidized in the pilot phase.
- Application Process: Candidates can register on BRBRAITT’s official website or BSNL portals once applications open. Required documents include educational certificates and ID proof.
Stay updated by checking BRBRAITT’s website and BSNL’s official channels for the latest information.
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What courses will BSNL, and its partners offer?
Courses include 5G networking, AI/ML for networks, cybersecurity, SDN/NFV, and IT infrastructure. These are offered through Ericsson, Qualcomm, Cisco, and Nokia, with industry-recognized certificates.
Will the training be free?
Fee details are not yet announced. Some courses may be free or subsidized initially. Check BRBRAITT’s website for updates.
How long will the training last?
Courses typically range from 3-6 months for short-term programs, with advanced certificate or diploma courses lasting up to 1 year. They include practical training and internships.
Conclusion: A New Opportunity for India’s Youth
BSNL’s training program in 5G, AI/ML, and networking is a golden opportunity for India’s youth. It offers advanced skills, job prospects, and a chance to contribute to Digital India. If you’re looking to build a career in technology, don’t miss this chance. Keep an eye on BRBRAITT’s website and social media for updates and register as soon as applications open. This is your moment to shape a tech-driven future!