Industry leaders and experts in India are calling for curriculum reform and skilling efforts to nurture top semiconductor talent as the country aims to become a global semiconductor powerhouse.
There is a significant talent gap, especially in senior-grade expertise, which could hinder the sector's progress despite India's raw potential in human capital and technology.
A holistic approach involving academia, industry, and policymakers is needed to create curricula focusing on hands-on skills, industry-specific knowledge, and long-term growth.
India's semiconductor ambitions are vast, with initiatives like building the first commercial 12-inch fab and packaging indigenous chips, but there is a critical need for a skilled workforce.
Government representatives emphasize the importance of industry-academia collaboration and aligning skilling efforts with rapid technological changes in chip design and fabrication.
The journey from R&D-grade semiconductor research to commercial-grade manufacturing poses a challenge that requires building a talent pipeline and immigration policy reforms.
The quantum industry also stresses the need for a tailored curriculum, especially in emerging technologies like quantum computing, to address the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Initiatives like hackathons and industry collaborations are essential in creating an applied learning environment to equip students for success in the semiconductor and quantum sectors.
A reimagined curriculum, co-created by academia, industry, and policymakers, is crucial to meeting the growing demand for skilled talent in the semiconductor and quantum industries.
The focus on practical, industry-relevant experiences and hands-on skills can bridge the gap between theoretical education and real-world application, ensuring students are prepared for the evolving tech landscape.