A.P. inks pact with Cisco to enhance digital skills development in State

The government on Tuesday (March 25) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with networking and security leader Cisco to enhance digital skills development in the State.

As part of this partnership, 50,000 learners across Andhra Pradesh will gain access to courses in digital skills through the Cisco Networking Academy, which runs IT skills-to-jobs programmes. The collaboration will expand the NetAcad programme across higher education, including degree, engineering and vocational institutions, enhancing skill development among youth across the State and creating a highly skilled workforce for IT sector and other industries. Learners will have access to a mix of self-learning and instructor-led courses on the NetAcad platform.  

Cisco will also offer specialised programmes on the Andhra Pradesh State government portal, providing officers with greater access to in-demand courses. The program will also include virtual internships, workforce development programmes such as Women Rock IT and Find Yourself in the Future (FYIF), and hands-on learning opportunities designed to build a robust talent pipeline in the State.  

Minister for Human Resource Development (HRD) and Information Technology (IT) Nara Lokesh, who was present on the occasion, said the collaboration will play a pivotal role in preparing students and workforce with the necessary skills to seize opportunities in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies for future jobs.

Cisco senior vice-president and global innovation officer Guy Diedrich as the workforce today adapts to the rapid pace of technological change, bridging the digital skills gap is more critical than ever. “Our partnership with the Government of Andhra Pradesh underscores our commitment to building a strong talent pipeline for the digital economy. Through the Cisco Networking Academy, students will gain the necessary skills needed to bridge this gap, enhance employability, and build a local pool of next-generation talent to thrive in a digital-first world,” he said.