Cisco, a global leader in networking and security, and Rockwell Automation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen their partnership and introduce the ‘Digital Skills for Industry’ program. This initiative is designed to address the growing digital skills gap in India’s manufacturing sector by integrating IT and OT curriculums in cybersecurity, networking, IoT, data science, AI, programming, and automation technologies.
Addressing India’s Manufacturing Skills Shortage
India has set an ambitious target of exporting goods worth USD 1 trillion by 2030, positioning itself as a global manufacturing hub. However, a severe shortage of skilled workers threatens this progress. A TeamLease report projects that while the electronics manufacturing sector could generate 12 million jobs by FY 2027-28, the industry faces a shortfall of 10 million trained professionals.
To counter this challenge, organizations are ramping up investments in operational technology while emphasizing workforce upskilling. In July 2024, Cisco and Rockwell Automation committed to closing the digital skills gap in manufacturing across the Asia-Pacific region through social impact programs, including the Cisco Networking Academy (NetAcad). NetAcad has already trained over 2.2 million students in India by collaborating with educational institutions and industry leaders, offering courses in networking, programming, and cybersecurity.
Industry Leaders Emphasize Workforce Upskilling
“As we navigate the digital-first era, we’re witnessing a significant shift where industries without the right skilled talent risk falling behind. This transformation, driven by AI and emerging technologies, is especially critical for the manufacturing sector,” said Daisy Chittilapilly, President, Cisco India & SAARC “We are excited to partner with Rockwell Automation to build a future-ready, skilled workforce that can bring to life new possibilities of digital technologies, paving the way for a smarter and globally competitive manufacturing landscape.”
Dilip Sawhney, Managing Director, Rockwell Automation India, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of upskilling:
“India’s manufacturing sector is poised to be a key engine of the nation’s economic transformation. Amidst rapid technological advancements, the need for workforce upskilling and reskilling has never been more urgent. Rockwell Automation’s 9th annual State of Smart Manufacturing report identifies ‘change management’ as the top workforce challenge for 2024, highlighting the crucial role of human capital in the adoption of smart manufacturing technologies,”
Rockwell Automation’s Training Solutions for Industry and Academia
Rockwell Automation is actively working to close this skills gap by offering training solutions tailored for both enterprises and academic institutions. These programs, delivered via a mix of virtual and instructor-led courses, cover fundamental and product-specific automation technologies. The courses can be implemented directly on the plant floor, in classrooms, or through virtual platforms, ensuring accessibility and effectiveness.
A Strategic Vision for India’s Future in Manufacturing
“While companies are committed to maintaining and even expanding their workforce in this era of automation, simply hiring isn’t enough. A strategic investment in robust upskilling and reskilling programs is essential. These programs must empower workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to leverage emerging technologies effectively. By cultivating a dynamic talent ecosystem equipped for the future of manufacturing, we can realize India’s national vision: establishing the country as a global manufacturing powerhouse, competitive on the world stage,” added Sawhney.
With this initiative, Cisco and Rockwell Automation are laying the groundwork for a digitally skilled workforce, ensuring that India’s manufacturing industry remains globally competitive, efficient, and future-ready.
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