The semiconductor industry is poised for substantial growth, driven by the surging demand for electronics across various sectors, including consumer electronics, telecommunications, automotive, and healthcare. This growth presents a unique opportunity for Odisha to become a key player in this evolving market. To fully leverage this opportunity, Odisha needs to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of adapting to the dynamic needs of the semiconductor industry.
This opinion piece advocates for a comprehensive and collaborative approach involving the Odisha government, educational institutions, and industry partners to develop and nurture semiconductor talent within the state.
Current Infrastructure and Challenges
Odisha boasts a robust network of engineering colleges and Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) that lay
a strong groundwork for technical education. Approximately 278 engineering colleges in the state
collectively produce around 25000 engineering graduates annually. Additionally, the state has 700 ITIs
that contribute a significant number of skilled diploma holders, approximately 50000 annually. Despite
this solid educational foundation, there is a glaring lack of specialised training programmes focused on
semiconductors.
This gap in education presents several critical challenges. Firstly, the current curriculum in many
engineering colleges and ITIs often lacks dedicated semiconductor-related courses, limiting students’
exposure to essential topics such as semiconductor device fabrication, design, and testing.
Furthermore, a shortage of faculty members with expertise in semiconductor technology hampers the
delivery of high-quality education. Many educational institutions lack industry-grade equipment or
laboratories for practical, hands-on learning experiences. Finally, students have limited opportunities
to engage with cutting-edge technologies, leaving them underprepared for the demands of the
semiconductor sector.
Consequently, the semiconductor industry faces significant hurdles in integrating fresh graduates into
the workforce. Companies often have to invest heavily in training new employees to meet their
specific needs, which can delay productivity and innovation. Therefore, it is crucial for Odisha to
address these challenges through strategic partnerships, curriculum enhancements, and investment in
state-of-the-art training facilities. By doing so, the state can effectively prepare its workforce for the
exciting opportunities the semiconductor industry will bring in the coming years.
Recommendations
Government of Odisha’s Role: The Odisha government comprehensively recognises the strategic significance of the semiconductor industry in driving technological advancement and economic growth. To capitalise on
this potential, it has initiated several forward-thinking measures to establish a robust semiconductor
ecosystem within the state.
Central to these efforts is the “Odisha Semiconductor Manufacturing and Fabless Policy 2023,” designed to attract significant investments in semiconductor manufacturing, nurture a highly skilled workforce, and foster a culture of innovation within the sector. Additionally, the government has entered into various partnerships and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with organisations such as the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA), Electronics Sector Skills Council (ESC), Odisha4Silicon-2023, and the O-Chip program, all of which are critical to laying the groundwork for the semiconductor industry in Odisha.
To further strengthen the semiconductor ecosystem, the following detailed recommendations are
proposed:
Curriculum Enhancement: There is a pressing need for collaboration between government bodies, academia and industry to design and integrate specialised semiconductor courses within existing engineering and diploma
programmes. This integration should encompass critical subjects such as VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration) design, embedded systems, PCB and packing design and various semiconductor manufacturing processes. An effective curriculum can only be developed through substantial industry-academia collaboration. This partnership would ensure educational institutions stay aligned with current industry trends and emerging technologies, ultimately equipping students with the relevant skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market.
Faculty Development and Faculty Exchange Programs: To ensure high-quality education in the semiconductor field, it is vital to invest in training programmes that upskill faculty in advanced technologies. Partnerships with industry experts and research institutions will facilitate knowledge transfer and keep faculty updated on advancements. Involving PhD students and professors in real-world projects will provide hands-on experience and enhance teaching effectiveness.
Additionally, faculty exchange programmes between universities worldwide and institutions in Odisha will
promote knowledge sharing and curriculum development, allowing faculty to bring back innovative practices and enrich the educational landscape in Odisha.
Infrastructure Upgrade: A significant investment in state-of-the-art laboratories is necessary to create an environment conducive to advanced semiconductor research and development. These labs should have industry-standard tools, software, and technologies in contemporary semiconductor design and manufacturing.
Establishing Centres of Excellence (CoEs) within select institutions dedicated to semiconductor design and manufacturing can further enhance the state’s capabilities. Collaborations with organisations such as Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), the World Skill Center, and the Odisha Skill Development Authority (OSDA) will ensure that these centres have access to cutting-edge equipment and skilled engineers who can provide mentorship. Such infrastructure improvements will empower academic institutions and Odisha’s startup ecosystem to innovate effectively.
Industry-Academia Collaboration and Partnerships: Building strong partnerships with leading semiconductor companies is essential for creating practical learning opportunities for students. This can be accomplished by establishing internship and apprenticeship programs that provide hands-on experience in real work environments. Involving industry representatives in curriculum design and organizing guest lectures will enable students to learn from professionals actively engaged in the field. This collaborative relationship will ensure that
students gain relevant industry insights and networking opportunities, significantly enhancing their future career prospects.
Additionally, organising regular workshops, seminars, and hackathons will be crucial in bridging the gap between academia and industry. These events can expose students to real-world projects and challenges, fostering practical skills and problem-solving abilities. Hosting semiconductor-specific events in Odisha will also increase regional awareness and generate interest in the semiconductor industry, highlighting potential career paths in this growing sector.
Scholarships and Incentives: To foster a talent pool in the semiconductor sector, the government should consider offering scholarships and financial incentives aimed at students pursuing education in semiconductor-related
fields. Establishing attractive compensation packages can also help attract skilled individuals from other states, enhancing the regional talent pool. Such initiatives can motivate students to specialise in sectors that are critical to the growth of Odisha’s semiconductor ecosystem.
Mentorship and Guidance: Mentorship programmes should connect students with experienced industry experts to foster new semiconductor professionals. These relationships provide valuable career guidance, networking, and support, enhancing students’ educational experiences and helping them make informed career decisions in the semiconductor industry.
Conclusion
By adopting these strategic recommendations, Odisha can create a robust pipeline of semiconductor talent. A united approach involving the government, educational institutions, and industry partners guarantees that the state’s workforce possesses the skills and expertise to thrive in this rapidly advancing sector. This initiative will drive economic growth in Odisha and enhance India’s standing as a global semiconductor powerhouse.
(With over 20 years of experience in the semiconductor domain, Pradeep Chimalapati is currently working as a freelance consultant to mentor, develop and support the semiconductor ecosystem in tier 2 and 3 cities. Email: pradeep.chimalapati@gmail.com Mobile: 8117828736)
