CeNSE, IISc and Groww Foundation collaborate to strengthen India’s semiconductor talent pipeline while encouraging greater participation of women in deep-science fields.
Programs such as Akanksha – STEM for Girls introduce school students to the exciting world of micro- and nano-technology.
Women students gain hands-on research experience through structured programs with access to advanced nanoscience laboratories and mentorship.
Internship opportunities provide practical training for students from national skill development initiatives, supporting careers in the emerging semiconductor industry
The Centre for Nano Science and Engineering (CeNSE) at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), in collaboration with Groww Foundation, has launched the Groww Foundation – CeNSE Semiconductor Skill Development Program, a new initiative designed to inspire and train the next generation of talent in semiconductor science and technology.
The program aims to encourage greater participation of women and young students in advanced fields such as micro and nano-technology, while also strengthening the emerging semiconductor ecosystem through targeted skill development and research exposure.
The initiative comprises three complementary programs that address different stages of the academic and research journey led by Dr. Dhavala Suri, Assistant Professor, CeNSE.
(a) Akanksha – STEM for Girls
“Akanksha” is designed to introduce meritorious school students to the exciting world of micro- and nano-technology. Through immersive exposure at CeNSE laboratories and interactions with researchers, the program seeks to inspire young girls to pursue careers in science and engineering and opens a window into cutting-edge research and innovation at the nanoscale.
(b) Women in STEM – Research Experience Program
The Research Experience Program (REP) provides women students with an opportunity to gain hands-on exposure to advanced research in nano science and semiconductor technology. Participants work closely with researchers at CeNSE and engage with state-of-the-art facilities, gaining insights into experimental techniques, device fabrication, and interdisciplinary scientific research. The program is designed to encourage women to pursue long-term careers in research and development.
(c) Research Internship Program
The initiative also includes a research internship track for students trained under the skill development programs supported by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India. Through internships at CeNSE’s advanced research facilities, these students gain practical exposure to semiconductor fabrication processes and laboratory practices. The experience is intended to strengthen their technical skills and enhance their readiness for opportunities in the rapidly growing semiconductor manufacturing sector.
Commenting on the development, Prof. Ambarish Ghosh, Chair, CeNSE, IISc stated, “At CeNSE, we believe that building India’s semiconductor future requires nurturing diverse talent. Through this collaboration with Groww Foundation, we hope to create meaningful opportunities for young girls, women researchers, and emerging talent.”
Kalpana Swaminathan, spokesperson of Groww Foundation, said, “Groww Foundation strives to stand for innovation and holistic education that fosters opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. Through this collaboration with CeNSE IISc under what we call the Groww Scholar Program, we hope to unlock opportunities for young girls, women and tribal communities in a manner that organically builds pathways for their growth and advancement in deep science and advanced technology.”
Groww Foundation, through this program, will support 160 girl and women students over the span of three years to encourage their greater participation in India’s semiconductor ecosystem.
About CeNSE, IISc
The Centre for Nano Science and Engineering (CeNSE) at the Indian Institute of Science is a leading interdisciplinary research centre focused on science and engineering at the nanoscale. Established in 2010, CeNSE works across areas such as advanced materials, semiconductor technology, nanoelectronics, MEMS/NEMS, photonics, nano-bio systems, brain-inspired computing, quantum technologies, and solar energy. The centre hosts state-of-the-art national user facilities including the National Nanofabrication Centre (NNfC), Micro Nano Characterization Facility (MNCF), and Packaging and Systems Facility (PASF), enabling cutting-edge research and supporting collaborations with academic institutions, startups, and industry partners.
About Groww Foundation
Groww Foundation is dedicated to building inclusive and sustainable communities across India. The foundation focuses on expanding access to quality education, advancing research and development, and driving skill development initiatives for a sustainable livelihood and quality of life.
Through partnerships with nonprofits, educational institutions, governments, and community organisations, Groww Foundation supports on-ground and technology-driven programs with a focus on long-term impact. These initiatives strengthen essential services and promote socioeconomic empowerment, ensuring wider access to opportunities created by India’s growing digital and economic transformation.
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