The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru and the American electronic design automation company, Synopsys, have joined hands to introduce the India Semiconductor Workforce Development Programme (ISWDP). This strategic move aims to bridge the workforce gap in the semiconductor industry, a critical player in driving contemporary digital technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing.
India’s semiconductor sector faces a shortfall of more than 5,000 engineers with essential fundamental and advanced skill sets to fulfill the nation’s semiconductor growth aspirations. The shortage is compounded by supply chain and manufacturing challenges. Therefore, training additional professionals in semiconductor development offers significant advantages to businesses and the entire nation.
**Key Highlights of ISWDP:**
ISWDP presents a well-structured curriculum comprising four distinct levels, tailored for both students and industry professionals. The program delves into foundational concepts and provides in-depth training in device and technology development. Trainees will gain practical experience in a microelectronics lab and access state-of-the-art research tools, as highlighted in an official statement from IISc Bengaluru.
The program encompasses critical elements such as 2D/3D process and device simulations, semiconductor device fabrication, calibration, and training in experiment design and simulation. These components are meticulously crafted to address the diverse challenges within the semiconductor industry.
Professor G Rangarajan, the director of IISc, emphasizes the institution’s commitment to nation-building and underscores the significance of collaboration between academia and industry. He expresses enthusiasm for contributing to India’s leadership in semiconductor technology development and manufacturing.
Raja Subramaniam, the country head and vice president of Applications Engineering at Synopsys India, acknowledges India’s potential in outsourced semiconductor assembly and test (OSAT) and manufacturing technologies. He asserts that India is poised to become a prominent player in outsourced semiconductor assembly and test (OSAT) and manufacturing technologies, signaling the nation’s increasing capabilities in this sector.