Cotton University Signs MoU with NITTTR Bhopal to Develop Skilled Human Resources for Emerging Semiconductor Sector in Assam

Cotton University Signs MoU with NITTTR Bhopal to Develop Skilled Human Resources for Emerging Semiconductor Sector in Assam

DD TIMES Bhopal/Guwahati, 22 January, 2026: In a significant step towards strengthening Assam’s preparedness for the rapidly expanding semiconductor industry, Cotton University, Guwahati, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Institute of Technical Teachers Training and Research (NITTTR), Bhopal.

The MoU aims to jointly develop dual-degree and specialized training programmes in Semiconductor Science and Technology and Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), with a strong focus on employability and industry-relevant skills.

The MoU was formally signed at NITTTR, Bhopal by Prof. Ramesh Chandra Deka, Vice Chancellor, Cotton University, and Prof. Chandra Charu Tripathi, Director, NITTTR Bhopal. The Vice Chancellor of Cotton University was accompanied by Dr. Rahul Mahanta, Associate Professor, Department of Physics, and Dr. Jitumoni Kalita, Assistant Professor, Department of Physics, during the visit.

A key thrust area of the MoU is capacity building in the Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) and Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging (ATMP) segments of the semiconductor value chain. These sectors play a critical role in the development of advanced electronic devices, bridging the gap between chip fabrication and end-use applications.

Globally, the semiconductor packaging, OSAT, and ATMP industries face a growing demand for a highly skilled workforce trained in process technologies, quality control, reliability testing, and packaging innovation.

In India, several OSAT industries have recently been established, with many more expected in the near future, indicating rapid sectoral growth and a substantial requirement for trained human resources.

The focus of the MoU is supporting Assam’s Semiconductor Ecosystem. And the MoU is particularly significant in the context of the Tata Group’s upcoming semiconductor project at Jagiroad, Assam, which is expected to act as a catalyst for the state’s electronics and semiconductor ecosystem.

By aligning academic training with industrial needs, the collaboration seeks to ensure that local talent is adequately skilled to take up emerging employment opportunities, thereby contributing to regional economic development.

The proposed programmes will combine theoretical foundations, hands-on training, industry exposure, and intellectual property awareness, enabling students and young professionals to gain competencies relevant to global semiconductor manufacturing and packaging standards.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Ramesh Chandra Deka, Vice Chancellor, Cotton University, said:“This MoU marks a landmark step for Cotton University and for Assam. With the semiconductor industry taking shape in Jagiroad, it is imperative that our students are equipped with cutting-edge skills aligned with industry requirements.

Collaboration with NITTTR Bhopal will enable us to design robust dual-degree and training programmes in Semiconductor Science, OSAT/ATMP processes, and Intellectual Property Rights, ensuring meaningful employment opportunities for our youth and supporting the state’s industrial transformation.”

Prof. Chandra Charu Tripathi, Director, NITTTR Bhopal, highlighted the national importance of the initiative, stating, “NITTTR Bhopal is committed to capacity building in emerging and strategic technologies.

The partnership with Cotton University will focus on creating a skilled workforce for the OSAT and ATMP segments, which are vital for India’s semiconductor mission. Through this MoU, we aim to integrate academic excellence with practical training and industry orientation, contributing to the country’s growing semiconductor ecosystem.”

Under this MoU, Cotton University and NITTTR Bhopal will jointly work on curriculum development, faculty training, student exchange, short-term and long-term training modules, and industry-linked programmes.

The collaboration is expected to play a pivotal role in human resource development for the semiconductor sector in Northeast India, positioning Assam as an emerging hub for skilled manpower in advanced electronics.

This strategic academic–technical partnership underscores Cotton University’s commitment to aligning higher education with national priorities and regional industrial growth, while leveraging NITTTR Bhopal’s expertise in technical education and training excellence.