On 22nd July 2025, the Indian Council for Technical Research and Development (ICTRD) signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University of Social Sciences (BRAUSS) to promote inclusive and industry-aligned education. Through this collaboration, both institutions will offer online certification and diploma programs focused on technical, vocational, and skill-based learning. These programs are designed to strengthen the academic, professional, and technical skills of students, professionals, and researchers across India. Aimed at narrowing the gap between education and employment, the initiative ensures open access for all—requiring only course registration and payment of fees, with no discrimination of any kind.
A Platform for Inclusive Skill Development
As part of the MoU, ICTRD and its network of institutions will offer a wide range of online learning programs in high-growth domains such as:
- Artificial Intelligence & Data Science
- Web & Software Development
- Business & Management
- Finance & Economics
- Cybersecurity & Information Safety
- Marketing & Communication
- Entrepreneurship & Innovation
- Sustainable & Green Technologies
These courses will be delivered through ICTRD’s flexible, proprietary learning management system. Examinations will be conducted fully online, enabling learners from all parts of the country to participate without physical barriers.
Visionary Leadership Driving the Initiative
Dr. Ketan Mohitkar, Member Secretary of ICTRD and an experienced leader in education and technology, emphasized the need to align educational offerings with workforce demands. “This MoU reaffirms our commitment to accessible, skill-based education that empowers learners for future opportunities,” he noted. Dr. Mohitkar also underscored the importance of startup incubation and entrepreneurship as core components of the partnership, aiming to drive inclusive innovation in collaboration with forward-thinking institutions like BRAUSS.
Merit-Based Access for All
The programs under this partnership are designed to be truly inclusive—accessible to learners regardless of their social, economic, or demographic background. Anyone who registers and pays the fee can enroll, ensuring an equitable and merit-driven learning ecosystem.
Advancing Innovation and Research Together
The MoU also lays the foundation for joint academic activities such as workshops, seminars, and faculty development programs. The focus areas include:
- Joint research projects and publications
- Development of practical case studies
- Innovation contests and challenges
- Establishment of CIRD – Centre for Innovation, Research, and Development
- Programs supporting national development and underprivileged communities
Centre for Innovation, Research, and Development (CIRD) – Core Goals:
- Support early-stage innovations and applied research
- Provide mentorship and incubation for startups
- Host hackathons, startup bootcamps, and innovation events
- Align innovation initiatives with social justice and national priorities
- Ensure broad access, especially for marginalized communities
- Enable academic collaboration and research dissemination
Empowering the Workforce of Tomorrow
This milestone agreement between ICTRD and BRAUSS represents a major step toward democratizing education and building a skilled, innovation-ready India. By merging academic excellence with hands-on training, this partnership aims to create meaningful opportunities for all learners. Together, both institutions are not just launching programs—they are shaping the future of inclusive education, innovation, and social progress.