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The Rajiv Gandhi Centre of Advanced Technology (R-CAT) has, in just one year, carved out a place of distinction in the realm of advanced education.

Located in Jaipur, R-CAT, founded by the Government of Rajasthan, is on a visionary mission: to arm students with cutting-edge knowledge of advanced and emerging technologies. In just 12 months, with a focus on technical education and skill development, it has made education accessible and relevant to the ever-evolving demands of the tech industry.

What sets R-CAT apart is its collaboration with 11 globally renowned Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), including industry giants Adobe, Apple, Cisco, EC Council, Microsoft, Oracle, and VMware, among others.

These partnerships lay the foundation for students to receive world-class training and mentorship directly from luminaries of the tech world, positioning them as coveted professionals in the fiercely competitive job market.

Fostering inclusivity and holistic growth

R-CAT’s commitment to inclusivity shines through its scholarship programmes, which have granted financial reprieve to 727 students, enabling them to access quality education. The institute identifies gifted tech enthusiasts through its ‘Quiz-A-Thons’ and extends R-CAT Scholarships to empower them with globally recognised courses, setting them on a journey towards advanced and emerging technologies.

Education at R-CAT transcends technology. In partnership with Rajasthan Knowledge Corporation Limited (RKCL), the institute offers free communication and personality development training. This approach aims to nurture leadership qualities and meta-skills among students, preparing them for job placements and a successful career in the tech industry.

Recognising the pivotal role of educators in shaping the future, R-CAT is also focused on faculty development. Collaborations with industry titans such as Apple, Adobe, EC Council, VMware, and Microsoft have seen 409 faculty members enrolling in Faculty Development Programme (FDP) courses. This ensures that the faculty remains at the forefront of technological advancements, delivering industry-relevant education to students.

Real-world exposure: The bridge to industry

R-CAT adds a tangible edge to education through its provision of paid internships. At present, 41 students have internships with OEMs, and are gaining real-world experience and fostering practice-based industry knowledge and networks.

R-CAT’s reputation for excellence has resulted in meaningful collaborations with prestigious universities, including Rajasthan Technical University, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Banasthali, and Manipal Universities. Discussions are under way with several national and international universities, cementing R-CAT’s position as a global hub of advanced technology education.

Empowering the unseen and unheard

R-CAT’s vision extends far and wide. It reaches out to rural Rajasthan, where, through Rural Tech Quiz-A-Thons, it has identified and trained two batches of 20 rural women each in advanced digital design courses. Eight graduates have already secured employment, underscoring the profound impact of R-CAT’s efforts.

Additionally, the institute has conducted specialised workshops for women MSME entrepreneurs and organised an inspirational workshop titled “Career in Creativity” for specially-abled children, shedding light on potential career pathways in digital design technology and the creative industries.

R-CAT’s influence goes beyond borders, evident in its numerous webinars and information sessions attended by participants from across Asia, Australasia, and North America. These sessions are catalysts for international collaborations, exposing students to global perspectives and practices.

As a state government-led IT finishing school, R-CAT has swiftly ascended to the role of a national role model. It sets high standards in technical education, industry partnerships, and skill development. Over 3,000 visitors, including students, faculty members, government officials, and industry delegates from Rajasthan and neighbouring states have visited the campus.

The Rajiv Gandhi Centre of Advanced Technology (R-CAT) is a testament to the transformative power of education, and stands tall as a beacon of quality education, industry synergy, and societal impact.