Empowering India’s Future: Capgemini and Nasscom Foundation Train Over 700 Underprivileged Youths in AI and Emerging Tech

India’s rapid digital transformation is reshaping industries and demanding a new generation of tech-savvy professionals. To meet this demand, Capgemini and the Nasscom Foundation have launched a pioneering initiative that’s already making waves. Their joint effort, the AI for Skilling program, has successfully trained and certified over 700 disadvantaged youths across Delhi NCR and Bengaluru. This collaboration not only aims to close the skills gap but also to bridge the socioeconomic divide by empowering underserved communities with the tools to thrive in an AI-driven future.

This initiative goes far beyond traditional classroom instruction. Through 200 hours of intensive training—140+ hours of technical content and 60+ hours focused on soft skills—participants gain a well-rounded foundation to navigate the evolving tech landscape. The curriculum spans generative AI, robotics, fintech, and more. The program is rooted in Capgemini’s Digital Academy, a platform that’s already equipped thousands across India with critical digital capabilities. Graduates of this initiative are not just gaining certifications; they’re landing real jobs in reputed companies, proving the tangible value of this skilling model.

Capgemini’s India CEO, Ashwin Yardi, emphasized the transformational role of AI and the importance of inclusivity. He highlighted how this initiative isn’t just about training—it’s about nurturing potential, with employees of Capgemini also volunteering as mentors. Meanwhile, Nasscom Foundation CEO Jyoti Sharma underscored how AI is altering the very nature of employment and why it’s essential to bring marginalized groups into this new world of work.

Beyond the classroom, the program offers a taste of the real world. With exposure to industry visits, expert-led sessions, and mentorship from professionals, learners are being prepared to not just find jobs but to excel in them. As the first batch completes training, the program is now moving toward more advanced and DeepTech domains. The future goal: creating sustainable tech career paths that uplift entire communities and build a more inclusive workforce.

What Undercode Say:

This initiative stands out not only for its scale but also for its vision. Capgemini and Nasscom Foundation are doing more than just ticking corporate social responsibility boxes—they’re crafting a blueprint for what future-ready education should look like in India.

The 200-hour model blends hard skills with vital soft skills, offering a more holistic form of learning that reflects real-world needs. This is especially important as many young people from underprivileged backgrounds often miss out on the non-technical proficiencies—like communication and workplace etiquette—that employers prioritize.

Targeting cities like Delhi NCR and Bengaluru is strategic. These hubs are at the center of India’s tech boom, offering the highest potential for job placement. Graduates are not being trained in isolation—they’re being prepared for a real, growing job market. What’s more, industry participation through volunteer mentorship and site visits adds depth, credibility, and confidence to the learning process.

The choice to include cutting-edge domains like generative AI and DeepTech also shows forward-thinking. Instead of limiting students to basic IT skills, the program is investing in future-proof capabilities. Generative AI, for example, is poised to revolutionize everything from customer service to healthcare. Training youth in these technologies means they’re not just entering the job market—they’re stepping in at the cutting edge.

There’s also a strong social justice undertone here. India, despite its tech dominance, struggles with deep digital inequality. Programs like this one help ensure that innovation doesn’t just benefit the top tier of society. Giving marginalized youth access to these tools and environments levels the playing field.

Another notable aspect is employee involvement. When company employees mentor students, they bring authenticity, industry insights, and genuine human connection—elements that can’t be replicated through e-learning modules alone.

Scaling this program is the next big challenge and opportunity. If similar initiatives were launched across more regions and supported by other corporates, India could see a grassroots tech revolution. The talent is there—it just needs the access, support, and belief that this program offers.

In a world where AI is automating routine work, human creativity, adaptability, and collaboration are more valuable than ever. That’s what makes the AI for Skilling program particularly impactful. It doesn’t just teach people to use tools; it teaches them how to think, adapt, and grow in an AI-led world.

Fact Checker Results ✅

🔍 The figures reported in the article are consistent with public statements made by Capgemini and the Nasscom Foundation.
📚 The 200-hour training structure, including soft skills, has been verified through official sources.
🎓 The success rate and job placement efforts align with known goals of the Capgemini Digital Academy initiative.

Prediction 📈

If the current pace and structure are maintained, this AI skilling initiative could scale to train tens of thousands more across India within the next five years. Expect other tech giants to follow suit with similar programs. As DeepTech adoption rises, India’s marginalized youth might emerge not just as job seekers—but as drivers of innovation in the AI era.