AICTE, SIDM ink MoU to boost academia-industry synergy in Defence and Aerospace sectors

New Delhi [India], October 4 : All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) signed an agreement on Friday to create a future-ready workforce for the Defence and Aerospace sectors.
The MoU was exchanged between the Chairman of AICTE, Prof. T.G. Sitharam, and the President of SIDM, Rajinder Singh Bhatia, in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
The MoU aims to establish a robust partnership between academia and the defence industry, with a focus on creating a future-ready workforce for the Defence and Aerospace sectors from AICTE-approved institutions across India, the AICTE said in a statement.
"One of the key highlights of this partnership is the focus on faculty and student development through specialized programs that will build capacity and drive institutional growth in Defence and Aerospace education," the statement read.
Additionally, the collaboration will facilitate industry internships for students in the Defence and Allied sectors, providing them with valuable hands-on experience and enhancing their employability.
Research and innovation are also central to this agreement, with both AICTE and SIDM working together on research projects and pilot programs to address current and emerging challenges in the Defence industry.
"Moreover, awareness programs on critical and emerging technologies will be organized to deepen academic institutions' understanding of these fields. Finally, tailored Defence and Aerospace educational programs will be introduced in AICTE-affiliated universities and institutions to further strengthen the nation's capabilities in these sectors," the statement said.
The MoU is valid for three years and will serve as a foundation for future collaboration, ensuring that the defence industry can draw from a pool of highly skilled graduates trained in relevant fields.