BRAUSS and ICTRD Join Forces Through MoU to Promote Skill-Based Education

To promote inclusive and industry-relevant education, the Indian Council for Technical Research and Development (ICTRD) signed a five-year MoU with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University of Social Sciences (BRAUSS) on 22nd July 2025. This partnership will launch online certification and diploma programs in technical, vocational, and skill-based fields. These courses are designed to improve the academic and professional skills of students, researchers, and working professionals across India. The initiative aims to reduce the gap between education and employment by offering practical skills that meet industry needs. The programs are open to all individuals without discrimination, provided they complete the enrollment process and pay the required fees.

Bridging Gaps with Accessible Learning and Practical Skills

Under this MoU, ICTRD along with its partner institutions will offer a diverse range of online training programs in high-demand fields such as:

• Artificial Intelligence & Data Science
• Web & Software Development
• Business & Management
• Finance & Economics
• Cybersecurity & Information Safety
• Marketing & Communication
• Entrepreneurship & Innovation
• Sustainable & Green Technologies

These programs will be delivered through a flexible online model using ICTRD’s dedicated learning management system. Certification exams will also be conducted entirely online, making it accessible to participants nationwide without the barrier of physical location.

During the MoU signing ceremony, Dr. Ketan Mohitkar, Member Secretary of ICTRD and a prominent figure in the fields of technology and education, emphasized the alignment of academic offerings with industry requirements. He noted, “This MoU reiterates our dedication to making skill-based education widely accessible, preparing learners for future career opportunities.” He also stressed the importance of nurturing startups, innovation, and entrepreneurship through inclusive, tech-driven collaborations with forward-thinking institutions like BRAUSS.

Open Access to All – No Discrimination, Only Merit

The initiative has been developed with inclusivity at its core—welcoming all learners irrespective of their gender, caste, socio-economic background, or community. Anyone who registers and pays the course fee is eligible to participate, thereby promoting an education model rooted in accessibility, equality, and merit.

Joint Efforts to Advance Research, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship

As part of this strategic collaboration, ICTRD and BRAUSS will jointly organize seminars, workshops, and faculty development programs to strengthen research capabilities, technical expertise, and entrepreneurial skills. The MoU outlines a shared commitment to fostering innovation through collaborative research projects, co-authored publications, and the development of real-world case studies. The two institutions will also host innovation challenges and competitions aimed at promoting creative problem-solving and practical application of knowledge.

A key highlight of this partnership is the establishment of the Centre for Innovation, Research, and Development (CIRD)—a dedicated hub to cultivate a robust startup ecosystem. CIRD will focus on early-stage innovations and research-driven solutions, while offering mentorship and incubation support for aspiring entrepreneurs. It will organize hackathons, startup bootcamps, and innovation contests to nurture talent and encourage technical excellence. All activities under CIRD will be aligned with national development priorities and the principles of social equity, ensuring inclusive access by actively engaging marginalized and underrepresented communities. The center will also promote joint academic collaborations and contribute to research that addresses real-world challenges.

ICTRD and BRAUSS Together Building a Future-Ready Workforce

This transformative partnership between ICTRD and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University of Social Sciences (BRAUSS) represents a major step toward democratizing education and building a future-ready, innovation-oriented India. By integrating academic rigor with real-world skill development, the initiative aims to empower learners from diverse backgrounds to succeed in today’s dynamic global environment. Together, ICTRD and BRAUSS are not only launching programs—they are shaping the future, advancing inclusive progress, and contributing to a more just and empowered society through the power of education.