IIT Guwahati Partners with Airbus for New Aviation Training Hub in Assam

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati has partnered with Airbus India Private Ltd to establish a global training centre for aviation and logistics. This collaboration aims to transform Assam into a hub for skilled aerospace personnel, according to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. He highlighted that this agreement signifies a shared commitment to innovation and excellence in aerospace technology and logistics development in Assam.

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An official statement revealed that a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) was signed between Prof Devendra Jalihal, Director of IIT-Guwahati, and Remi Maillard, President and Managing Director of Airbus India Private Ltd. The initial phase will see Airbus providing trainers, training materials, and tools from the ‘Airbus Beyond Catalog’ for short-term courses. Later, IIT-Guwahati faculty will be trained to independently deliver these courses while maintaining the curriculum and tools provided by Airbus.

Focus on Skill Development

Chief Minister Sarma emphasised that this initiative will address the current skill gap in the region. He stated, "This is a significant step in creating a robust and dynamic workforce in our region." The collaboration is expected to enhance global competitiveness and boost the logistics sector in the northeast. The project will cover key areas such as transportation industries, hospitality, skilling, and logistics, which have substantial potential for expansion.

The programme will be established at IIT-Guwahati with guidance from the government of Assam and other northeastern states. Sarma assured that students participating in this programme would receive adequate scholarships to pursue new careers. He also mentioned that the state has seen considerable development in both industry and education sectors.

Long-Term Vision

In the later phase, the partnership plans to co-curate long-term courses. The collaboration aims to elevate the global competitiveness of the logistics sector in the northeast region. Prof Jalihal noted, "This initiative will empower the youth of Assam and the northeastern region, fostering innovation, economic growth and a brighter future for all."

Sarma also highlighted other significant developments in Assam, such as Tata Group's semiconductor project at Jagiroad. He mentioned that the state is working towards creating a manufacturing hub to support the semiconductor industry. The government of Assam intends to engage more elaborately with Airbus India for further development opportunities in the northeast.

Commitment to Excellence

Commenting on the collaboration, Suraj Chettri, Vice-President and Head of HR at Airbus India and South Asia, said that Airbus would continue investing in developing a skilled workforce in India. He stated that the company is working closely with both central and state governments to unlock the full potential of India's aviation sector.

The director of IIT-Guwahati has requested support from the government of Assam for this initiative. Sarma reassured that all students who come for skilling under this programme would be given adequate scholarships to excel in their new careers. This partnership between IIT-Guwahati's academic excellence and Airbus India's technological leadership is expected to benefit Assam significantly.

The collaboration between IIT-Guwahati and Airbus India marks a milestone initiative aimed at fostering innovation and excellence in aerospace technology while developing a logistics hub in Assam. This agreement not only represents a formal alliance but also a shared commitment to advancing these sectors in the region.