Bengaluru’s Booming Campus Placement Season: AI and Cybersecurity Take Center Stage
As Bengaluru enters the vibrant midway point of its campus placement season, there’s palpable excitement over the surge in demand for roles in artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity. Together, these sectors account for nearly 40% of all hires this year, signifying a notable shift in hiring dynamics and career interests among students.
The AI Surge
One of the standout trends this year is the 50% increase in demand for AI roles compared to last year. Recognizing the importance of AI in today’s job market, educational institutions are proactive in equipping their students with essential skills. Colleges are making AI fundamentals mandatory for the 2025 batch, ensuring that upcoming graduates have a solid grounding in this critical area.
This initiative isn’t just about curriculum changes; it’s indicative of a broader recognition of AI’s transformative potential across industries. As KN Subramanya, the principal of RV College of Engineering, notes, "There is a huge demand for cyber resilience jobs that can tackle these threats and AI for students to pursue." This foresight means that students with AI expertise will be well-prepared for jobs that are increasingly integral to various sectors.
Cybersecurity Gains Traction
Alongside AI, cybersecurity is making significant strides, with institutions like PES University reporting that a considerable number of students are finding roles in this field. Approximately 30–40% of placements this year are focused on cybersecurity and AI-ML roles, highlighting a crucial need for talent capable of addressing emerging threats in the digital landscape.
Sridhar K, dean of placement at PES University, highlights the proactive approach companies are taking. "Companies are largely recruiting in AI, cloud, and cybersecurity spaces, along with product firms," he states, emphasizing that even junior students are being lured into internships that often lead to pre-placement offers. This trend is a testament to the growing importance of internships as a pathway to secure a job post-graduation.
The Diversity of Demand
While the spotlight on AI and cybersecurity is brightening, other roles, such as those in cloud computing, data science, and product development, are also gaining attention. Software and IT firms continue to dominate campus drives, but core engineering branches, such as mechanical, civil, electrical, and electronics, remain relevant.
Dilip Kumar, a professor and placement officer at UVCE, points out that "around 40% continue to opt for core-sector roles." This indicates that while tech roles attract the majority, there remains a significant portion of the student body keen on traditional engineering paths.
Evolving Educational Offerings
In response to the evolving demands of the job market, many institutions are expanding their academic offerings. For instance, Ramaiah Institute of Technology has reported a remarkable 50% increase in AI and cybersecurity hiring compared to last year. According to Srinivasa Ramanujam, dean of placements, "Student interest has shifted strongly towards AI-ML, cybersecurity, and data science."
If colleges are to prepare students for these markets, they’re also adapting curricula to feature specialized programs. Offerings like computer science with a focus on cybersecurity provide students with both theoretical knowledge and applicable skills required for a secure career.
The Importance of Collaboration
While institutions are making strides in curriculum development and skill training, there is a recognition that building a robust cybersecurity framework goes beyond academia. Collaboration between educational institutions, industry entities, and public awareness campaigns is essential to cultivate a future-ready workforce.
KN Subramanya emphasizes this point, stating, "Cyber preparedness cannot be built by institutions alone — it requires continuous collaboration between academia, industry, and centres of excellence."
Through such collaborative efforts, students will not only receive the necessary training but also gain insights from real-world applications, preparing them for the challenges they will face upon entering the workforce.
Navigating the Future
As Bengaluru’s campus placement season unfolds, it’s clear that the landscape of job opportunities is shifting dramatically. With AI and cybersecurity leading the way, students are encouraged to stay abreast of these trends, align their skills with market needs, and seize the opportunities that await them in this competitive environment. The emphasis on internships, specialized tracks, and robust fundamentals points to a bright future for students entering these exciting fields.
