IBM Launches AI Internship to Bridge Skills Gap for Tech Students

As the demand for artificial intelligence (AI) skills continues to grow globally, IBM is taking proactive steps to prepare the next generation of tech professionals through a virtual internship tailored to AI fundamentals and real-world applications.

In collaboration with the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and the Edunet Foundation, IBM SkillsBuild will host a six-week online internship starting June 2025, targeting students pursuing degrees in Computer Science, IT, Electronics, and related fields.

Closing the Skills-to-Work Gap in AI

This initiative is designed to bridge the often-cited gap between academic learning and industry needs. Through weekly virtual sessions, participants will cover AI essentials, including machine learning, deep learning, and use-case-based applications of AI in real-world scenarios.

But it’s not just theoretical. Students will also work on guided hands-on projects, allowing them to apply their learning under the mentorship of industry professionals. The goal is to equip students with practical experience aligned with what employers look for in entry-level tech talent.

Who Can Apply and What to Expect

The internship is open to students currently enrolled in BE, BTech, BCA, or MCA programs. While no stipend is provided, participants will earn one academic credit, a certificate from Edunet Foundation, and a digital badge upon completion—all of which can bolster their digital resumes and LinkedIn profiles.

To participate, students need a laptop or PC with a stable internet connection and a current version of Chrome or Firefox. The deadline for applications is May 31, 2025, with 5,000 slots available via the AICTE National Internship Portal.

Why This Matters

Beyond individual learning, this internship reflects broader trends in AI democratization and workforce development. With AI rapidly transforming sectors from finance to healthcare, initiatives like this aim to prepare a wider talent base—especially in developing regions—for the future of work.

While unpaid, the opportunity to be trained and mentored by IBM-backed experts may open doors for participants who are navigating competitive job markets or planning to pursue advanced studies in AI and data science.

As more global tech companies turn to virtual platforms to nurture scalable tech talent pipelines, programs like this serve as early models for how industry-academia partnerships can deliver impact at scale.