SAP Labs India, TASK, Edunet Foundation Launch SAP Centre Of Excellence In Hyderabad

SAP Labs India's CSR initiative, Code Unnati, announced its expansion into Telangana to promote skill development and employability among the youth in the Industry 4.0 era. Implemented by Edunet Foundation and supported by Telangana Academy for Skill and Knowledge (TASK), this expansion marks the establishment of centres of excellence dedicated to emerging technologies in 17 locations across the state.

The Code Unnati program underscores the importance of industry-relevant skills in preparing individuals for the future of work, eventually creating pathways towards employability and future readiness for both faculty and students. The inaugural event was held on March 14, 2024, at TASK Regional Centre in Hyderabad in the presence of leadership and senior officials from TASK, SAP Labs India and Edunet Foundation.

At the inauguration ceremony, select faculty members completed the first phase of the three-day Faculty Development Program (FDP) and received completion certificates.

Speaking about the partnership, Sindhu Gangadharan, SVP and MD of SAP Labs India and Head, SAP User Enablement said, “As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of technology, Gen AI emerges as a powerful force in shaping the future of technical education. By harnessing the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI), we have the opportunity to revolutionize the way we prepare our youth for the jobs of tomorrow. However, we must not overlook the critical role of faculty members in this transformation.”

She added that itis through their expertise, guidance, and mentorship that the nation can empower the next generation of technocrats. “By working hand in hand with our dedicated faculty, we can ensure that our youth are equipped with the necessary skills, knowledge, and adaptability to thrive in the rapidly changing technological landscape,” she said.

Shrikant Sinha, CEO of TASK pointed out that the industrial landscape is constantly evolving. After the rise of Industry 2.0 and 3.0, characterized by incremental advancements the world stands at the cusp of Industry 4.0 and 5.0, which is defined by a rapid explosion of innovation across multiple dimensions. From AI and robotics to the Internet of Things and big data, the technological landscape is teeming with possibilities.

“Amidst this exhilarating rush towards the future, it's crucial to strike a balance. While staying adaptable to emerging trends and embracing new technologies is essential, a strong foundation in core principles remains equally important. Equipping students with a solid grasp of fundamentals in various subjects empowers them to not only navigate the complexities of these advancements but also become active contributors to shaping the future,” Sinha maintained.

Ravinder Singh Bidhan, Associate Director, EDUNET, said, “SAP started this program for students from economically weaker sections of society, studying in Tier 2 and Tier 3 colleges. The 300+ hours’ Code Unnati program equips the colleges with SAP centres of excellence to enable experiential learning of deep tech. With elements such as capstone projects, mentoring, and capacity building of faculty, the program uses a sustainable hands-on approach towards levelling up the skills of underserved students and establishing a pathway to industry.”