MSDE & Microsoft Launch ‘AI Careers for Women’ with 30 Centers of Excellence

23 Apr 2025 CW Team

As part of this initiative, Microsoft will provide a 240-hour training curriculum under the AI Skilling and Innovation framework, developed in consultation with the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET). The training will be delivered through a hub-and-spoke model, featuring 30 Centres of Excellence (CoEs) and 150 educational institutions across Tier-II and Tier-III towns in six states. The program is designed to offer specialized undergraduate AI courses, enabling women to develop the skills needed for high-demand careers in AI.

Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Union Minister of State for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, emphasized that this partnership exemplifies the government’s commitment to expanding opportunities for women in emerging tech fields. He highlighted that the initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) and will not only transform individual careers but also drive India towards a more equitable and innovation-driven economy.

The program, which is set to benefit 20,000 learners, includes AI certifications, internships, apprenticeships, career guidance, and job opportunities in AI roles. It will also support women from rural areas, enabling them to innovate in AI and contribute to AI development in sectors such as agriculture and rural enterprise. By establishing these Centres of Excellence, the initiative aims to create a talent pipeline for AI innovation, particularly in rural India.

Edunet Foundation, one of the program partners, will play a key role in implementing the initiative, working with academic institutions, government bodies, and industry partners to provide the necessary training and resources. Through this collaboration, Microsoft and MSDE aim to build an inclusive AI ecosystem and enhance workforce participation among women across India.

In a groundbreaking collaboration, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and Microsoft have launched the ‘AI Careers for Women’ initiative, aimed at empowering women in higher education to pursue careers in Artificial Intelligence (AI). This strategic initiative focuses on bridging the gender gap in emerging technologies and providing young women with industry-aligned skills to contribute to India’s growing digital economy. As part of this initiative, Microsoft will provide a 240-hour training curriculum under the AI Skilling and Innovation framework, developed in consultation with the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET). The training will be delivered through a hub-and-spoke model, featuring 30 Centres of Excellence (CoEs) and 150 educational institutions across Tier-II and Tier-III towns in six states. The program is designed to offer specialized undergraduate AI courses, enabling women to develop the skills needed for high-demand careers in AI. Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Union Minister of State for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, emphasized that this partnership exemplifies the government’s commitment to expanding opportunities for women in emerging tech fields. He highlighted that the initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) and will not only transform individual careers but also drive India towards a more equitable and innovation-driven economy. The program, which is set to benefit 20,000 learners, includes AI certifications, internships, apprenticeships, career guidance, and job opportunities in AI roles. It will also support women from rural areas, enabling them to innovate in AI and contribute to AI development in sectors such as agriculture and rural enterprise. By establishing these Centres of Excellence, the initiative aims to create a talent pipeline for AI innovation, particularly in rural India. Edunet Foundation, one of the program partners, will play a key role in implementing the initiative, working with academic institutions, government bodies, and industry partners to provide the necessary training and resources. Through this collaboration, Microsoft and MSDE aim to build an inclusive AI ecosystem and enhance workforce participation among women across India.

Resources

09 Mar 2026

Haworth India Hosts Women’s Leadership Panel Series

Haworth India marked International Women’s Day by hosting a leadership roundtable series titled ‘Give to Gain’, bringing together senior women leaders from architecture and design firms, corporates and project management consultancies. The series has been conducted in Delhi and Mumbai, with upcoming sessions scheduled in Bengaluru and Hyderabad on 27 March 2026. Structured as moderated panel discussions followed by audience interaction, the initiative examined the business impact of women’s leadership and the role of inclusive workplaces in supporting professional growth. Manish Khan..

Real Estate

09 Mar 2026

Max Estates Secures RERA For Max One Project

Max Estates has secured RERA approval (UPRERA No.: UPRERAPRJ9759) for its Max One development around Max Towers in Sector 16B, Noida, bringing renewed progress to a project previously stalled following the insolvency of its earlier developer. Spread across around 10 acres with an estimated development potential of about 2.5 million sq ft, Max One is planned as an integrated mixed-use campus combining serviced residences, premium offices, retail spaces and a private club. The project is expected to generate total sales potential of about Rs 20 billion along with an estimated annuity rental inc..

Real Estate

09 Mar 2026

Hindware Introduces Starc Smart Wall Mount Toilet

Hindware has introduced the Starc Smart Wall-Mount Toilet under its Hindware Italian Collection, designed to combine automation, hygiene and contemporary bathroom aesthetics. The model features automatic flushing, sensor-based seat opening and closing, and remote-controlled functions. It also includes an oscillating water spray and warm air dryer for cleaning, along with a self-cleaning nozzle designed to maintain hygiene. Additional features include adjustable heated seating, customisable water temperature and pressure settings, a foot-touch flush system and an LCD control interface. The wa..