New Delhi: The National Skill Development Corporation, operating under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, has partnered with Cultus Education and Amazon Web Services to launch a nationwide cloud and artificial intelligence training initiative across India. The program aims to bridge the digital skills gap and reach talent in regional areas by providing foundational training to 150,000 learners and intensive workforce development to 10,000 participants.
The initiative leverages digital content from Amazon Web Services to deliver foundational literacy alongside the AWS re/Start program, a free, cohort-based training course designed to build job-ready skills in cloud computing and connect graduates directly with hiring employers. Fully online and managed by Cultus Education as the primary delivery partner, the program targets youth in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities who often face barriers such as limited access to technical education and few local professional networks.
The structured learning pathway allows participants to start with self-paced digital content before advancing to instructor-led training. Under the guidance of professional mentors, students will complete hands-on labs and coursework focused on programming, networking, security, relational databases, and artificial intelligence fundamentals. Upon completion, participants earn industry-recognized credentials and gain access to job interview opportunities with regional tech employers. The program will conclude with a National Hackathon where learners can demonstrate their practical solutions to industry leaders and potential employers.
Government and corporate leaders highlighted the initiative’s role in expanding economic mobility and supporting India’s economic goals. Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, stated that the program aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 by ensuring youth in smaller towns can access future-ready skills regardless of geography. Rani Burchmore, APJC Lead for AWS Skilling and Social Impact, noted that the AWS re/Start program helps bring new talent into the workforce to support organizational innovation. Nalin Singh, Group Managing Director of Cultus Education, emphasized that the focus remains on delivering an outcome-led journey that turns learning into valid credentials and employment opportunities. Prashant Sinha, Chief Operating Officer of the National Skill Development Corporation, was also present at the official announcement.