In a significant development on 22nd July 2025, the Indian Council for Technical Research and Development (ICTRD) entered into a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University of Social Sciences (BRAUSS) to foster inclusive and industry-aligned education. This strategic alliance aims to introduce online certification and diploma programs in technical, vocational, and skill-based domains to enhance academic, professional, and technical competencies among students, researchers, and working professionals across India. The initiative is designed to narrow the gap between education and employment by imparting practical, industry-relevant skills. These programs are open to all individuals, ensuring equal opportunity for anyone who completes the enrollment process and pays the applicable fees, without any form of discrimination.
A Platform for Inclusive Learning and Skill Development
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.
Leadership Vision Behind the Initiative
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.
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.