In a significant step towards bridging the digital divide, Capgemini, in collaboration with the Nasscom Foundation, has successfully trained and certified more than 700 underserved youths in Delhi NCR and Bengaluru through the AI for Skilling initiative.
As India accelerates towards an AI-driven future, the urgency to develop a workforce adept in cutting-edge technologies has never been greater. Through this forward-looking partnership, Capgemini and the Nasscom Foundation are addressing this need by imparting comprehensive training in generative AI, robotics, fintech, and other emerging domains.
Structured as an intensive 200-hour programme, the initiative comprises over 140 hours of technical instruction supplemented by more than 60 hours dedicated to the development of essential soft skills. It forms a cornerstone of Capgemini’s broader Digital Academy endeavour, which is committed to equipping thousands of young individuals across India with high-demand digital proficiencies.
This initiative emphasises not only skill-building but also employability. By focusing on foundational knowledge, advanced tech competencies, and job-readiness, the programme has already facilitated numerous employment opportunities for its participants.
Ink Dive: How Can Organisations Drive Sustainable Disability Inclusion?
Ashwin Yardi, CEO – India, Capgemini, stated: “AI is shaping a bold new era of work—one where innovation, inclusion, and human potential thrive together. Through Capgemini’s Digital Academy, in partnership with Nasscom Foundation, we are bridging the digital divide - equipping the youth with industry-relevant AI and technology skills for meaningful careers. This initiative is also fuelled by the passion of our employee volunteers, who mentor and guide learners, reinforcing our commitment to inclusive growth. Congratulations to our first cohort of graduates - the future is yours to lead and transform!"
Jyoti Sharma, CEO, Nasscom Foundation, remarked: “AI is not just reshaping industries, it’s redefining the future of work. Our collaboration with Capgemini, under the AI for Skilling initiative, reflects our shared vision of an inclusive digital economy, where marginalised youth have the opportunity to participate and break barriers to AI access. By enabling future-ready skills and focusing on foundational, core-work skills, we are investing in the potential of India’s youth to fully embrace evolving digital opportunities.”
To ensure holistic development, learners participated in expert-led sessions, aptitude-building workshops, awareness modules, and industry visits, providing real-world exposure and insight into the expectations of the modern workplace.
Buoyed by the programme’s early success, the initiative is now poised to enter its next phase with an emphasis on DeepTech and advanced technologies. This long-term vision seeks to chart sustainable, tech-enabled career paths for disadvantaged youth, reinforcing the broader mission of fostering an inclusive, digitally empowered workforce for the future.
Insights from an agency
