The American technology giant Cisco has partnered with Telangana government institutions Young India Skills University (YISU) and Telangana Academy for Skill & Knowledge (TASK) to expand digital skills training in the state.
The collaboration will use Cisco’s Networking Academy platform to offer courses in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and networking.
The agreement comes as India faces a digital skills shortage. National Skill Development Corporation data shows demand for 103 million skilled technology workers exceeds the current supply of 74 million professionals.
Under the partnership, Cisco’s training programs will be available in Telangana’s colleges and vocational centres. Government employees will also access reskilling courses. The initiative includes online and classroom learning with practical internships.
Dr. Guy Diedrich of Cisco said: “With technology advancing at an unprecedented pace, it’s incumbent upon us as business and community leaders to upskill our populations at the speed of innovation. Our partnership with TASK and YISU underscores Cisco’s commitment to equipping India’s workforce with the necessary skills to thrive in an AI-driven world.”
YISU Vice Chancellor V.L.V.S.S. Subba Rao stated: “Our collaboration with Cisco will enable students to access world-class digital training through certificate, diploma and degree courses, enhancing their career prospects and supporting Telangana’s vision of becoming a leading hub for technology innovation.”
The program will first launch in Hyderabad before expanding statewide. Initial courses cover basic networking with plans to add AI, cybersecurity, cloud computing and IoT topics. Participants can earn Cisco certifications recognised globally.
TASK CEO Shrikant Sinha added: “Our collaboration with Cisco will strengthen networking and cybersecurity skills across the state, equipping our youth with job-ready capabilities to meet industry demands in these critical sectors.”
Cisco’s Networking Academy has trained over 1.2 million students in India since starting 20 years ago. The program has reached 50,000 learners in Telangana through previous partnerships.
The initiative supports Telangana’s goal to create 500,000 technology jobs by 2027. Special efforts will encourage women to join tech fields through programs like Women Rock IT.
Training will combine online materials with instructor-led sessions. Students will use simulation tools and complete virtual internships. Government workers can take specialised modules for digital roles.
The partnership represents one of Telangana’s largest skills development projects. It aims to prepare workers for India’s growing digital economy where AI and cybersecurity skills are in high demand.
Cisco will provide course content and certifications while YISU and TASK manage local implementation. The program offers multiple study options from short courses to degree programs.
The state government welcomed the initiative noting its potential to reduce skills gaps in Telangana’s technology sector. Telangana has prioritised digital training in its recent IT policy.
