NetApp, the Intelligent Data Infrastructure company, recently announced a multi-year cooperation with the Nasscom Foundation to launch a skilling program in AI and Data Science, acknowledging India’s critical role in the global AI economy. The program, which was presented in Bengaluru in front of Rostow Ravanan, the chairperson of the Nasscom Foundation, and George Kurian, CEO of NetApp, furthered the organization’s dedication to advancing data science and AI education.

By giving them the in-demand skills in data science and artificial intelligence, the initiative aims to groom the next generation of tech talent from under-represented neighbourhoods. In the first phase, a comprehensive curriculum that combines technical expertise with workplace preparation and industrial exposure will be used to train engineering graduates from resource-constrained communities in the states of Karnataka and Delhi.

“Our collaboration with the Nasscom Foundation demonstrates our common goal of developing a workforce prepared for the future. By working together to develop industry-relevant courses, we are addressing the changing demands of the digital economy. This strengthens the Nasscom Foundation’s skilling ecosystem in addition to fostering AI talent at scale, according to Vasanthi Ramesh, Vice President of Engineering and Site Leader at NetApp India.

In addition to NetApp-curated seminars on Kubernetes, persistent storage, and AI infrastructure, participants will receive 120 hours of technical training in Python, data analytics, machine learning, and deep learning. In order to prepare graduates for the workforce, the program will also provide 60 hours of soft skills training, such as communication, teamwork, and career counselling, in addition to technical skills. Employability will be further improved via industry-recognized certifications and assistance with job placement; the goal is to place almost 70% of the cohort in technology-related positions.

According to Rostow Ravanan, chairperson of the Nasscom Foundation, “the future of work is being reshaped by the increasing demand for AI and Data Science professionals.” “Bridging the opportunity gap through equitable access to ongoing, industry-aligned skilling is essential to tackling this transition head-on. This vision is reflected in our partnership with NetApp, where we are equipping young people—particularly women from marginalised communities—with the digital, artificial intelligence, and data skills necessary to prosper in an inclusive and forward-thinking economy.

By filling a crucial gap—the requirement for qualified, moral, and employable professionals—the skilling initiative introduced by NetApp and the Nasscom Foundation advances India’s goal of becoming a global centre for AI talent. The program will increase inclusion in the digital economy and open doors to fulfilling technology employment through demanding technical instruction and practical experience.