In a progressive move 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-relevant education. This strategic collaboration aims to offer online technical, vocational, and skill-based certification and diploma programs designed to enhance the academic, professional, and technical competencies of students, scholars, and working professionals across India. This initiative seeks to bridge the gap between education and employment by equipping learners with practical skills aligned to industry demands. The programs are open to all individuals without any discrimination, ensuring equal opportunity for anyone who wishes to enroll and pay the requisite fees, regardless of their background or community.
A Platform for Inclusive Learning and Skill Development
Under the MoU, ICTRD and its associate institutions will offer a wide array of online training programs across high-demand domains, including:
- 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 learning model supported by ICTRD’s proprietary learning management system. The certification exams will be conducted fully online by ICTRD, allowing participants from across the country to access opportunities without geographical constraints.
Leadership Vision Behind the Initiative
Dr. Ketan Mohitkar, Member Secretary of ICTRD and a seasoned leader in technology and education, emphasized aligning academic programs with industry needs. He stated, “This MoU reaffirms our commitment to accessible, skill-based education that empowers learners for future opportunities.” Dr. Mohitkar also highlighted the importance of fostering startups, innovation, and entrepreneurship through inclusive and technology-driven initiatives in partnership with visionary institutions like BRAUSS.
Open Access to All – No Discrimination, Only Merit
The initiative is designed to be inclusive—open to all learners regardless of background, gender, caste, or economic status. Anyone who completes the registration process and pays the course fees will be eligible to participate, making this a unique model that fosters equality, accessibility, and merit-based learning.
Joint Efforts to Advance Research and Innovation
Both institutions will jointly conduct workshops, seminars, and faculty development programs aimed at enhancing research capabilities, technical skills, and entrepreneurial potential. The MoU also promotes:
- Collaborative research projects and joint publications
- Development of real-world case studies
- Promotion of innovation challenges and competitions
- The establishment of the CIRD – Centre for Innovation, Research, and Development to encourage a robust startup ecosystem
- Programs aligned with national development goals and social justice for underprivileged communities
Centre for Innovation, Research, and Development (CIRD) – Key Objectives:
- Promote early-stage innovations and research-driven problem-solving.
- Provide mentorship and incubation support for aspiring entrepreneurs.
- Organize hackathons, innovation challenges, and startup bootcamps to cultivate creativity and technical excellence.
- Align all research and innovation initiatives with national development goals and social justice principles.
- Ensure inclusive access by encouraging participation from underprivileged and marginalized communities.
- Joint research publications and academic collaborations.
Building a Future-Ready Workforce
This landmark partnership between ICTRD and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University of Social Sciences (BRAUSS) marks a significant step toward democratizing education and nurturing a future-ready, innovation-driven India. By combining academic excellence with practical skill-building, the initiative empowers learners from all walks of life to thrive in a rapidly evolving global landscape. Together, ICTRD and BRAUSS are not just offering programs—they are shaping possibilities, driving inclusive growth, and building a stronger, more equitable society through the transformative power of education.