NetApp and Nasscom Foundation Partner to Build AI and Data Science Talent Pipeline in India

New Delhi, November 04, 2025: In a move to strengthen India’s position as a global hub for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science, NetApp, the Intelligent Data Infrastructure company, has partnered with the Nasscom Foundation to launch a multi-year skilling program focused on preparing youth from underserved communities for careers in emerging technologies.

The initiative was unveiled in Bengaluru in the presence of George Kurian, CEO, NetApp, and Rostow Ravanan, Chairperson, Nasscom Foundation. In its first phase, the program will train engineering graduates from resource-constrained communities across Karnataka and Delhi, equipping them with AI and Data Science skills relevant to industry needs.

Vasanthi Ramesh, Vice President of Engineering and Site Leader, NetApp India, said:“Our partnership with Nasscom Foundation reflects our shared vision of building a future-ready workforce. We are meeting the evolving needs of the digital economy by co-creating industry-relevant curricula. This helps not only in nurturing AI talent at scale but also strengthening Nasscom Foundation’s skilling ecosystem.”

The program includes 120 hours of technical training in Python, data analytics, machine learning, and deep learning, alongside NetApp-curated sessions on Kubernetes, persistent storage, and AI infrastructure. It also offers 60 hours of soft skills training, including communication, teamwork, and career guidance. Participants will receive industry-recognized certifications and job placement support, with a goal of placing nearly 70% of participants in technology roles.

Rostow Ravanan, Chairperson, Nasscom Foundation, said: “The growing demand for AI and Data Science professionals is reshaping the future of work. To meet this transformation head-on, it is vital to bridge the opportunity gap by ensuring equitable access to continuous, industry-aligned skilling. Our collaboration with NetApp reflects this vision where we are empowering youth, especially women from underserved communities, with the digital, AI, and data capabilities needed to thrive in an inclusive and future-ready economy.”

This initiative supports India’s broader ambition to become a leader in AI-driven innovation by bridging the gap between talent supply and industry demand. By combining technical education with employability training, the program aims to foster an inclusive digital ecosystem that prepares students for the next generation of technology jobs.

The NetApp–Nasscom Foundation AI skilling program represents a step toward democratizing technology education and expanding career pathways for India’s emerging workforce, ensuring that the country’s digital growth is both sustainable and inclusive.