The first batch of students from SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST) graduated from the Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai, with a Diploma in Information Technology and Cyber Security on March 3, 2026.
Instituted under a Memorandum of Understanding between SRMIST and OTA, the one-year diploma programme was designed to equip future military leaders with structured knowledge in cutting-edge domains of information technology, cyber security, and data protection, thereby strengthening the nation’s cyber resilience and digital warfighting capabilities.
A total of 350 officer cadets were awarded diplomas under this unique academic partnership. Among them, 321 were male cadets and 29 were female cadets. The graduating cohort demonstrated notable academic distinction, recording 16 rank holders.
This marks the first batch of SRMIST students to graduate from OTA under the specially curated diploma programme designed to integrate technological competence with military training. Structured to accommodate the rigorous physical and tactical schedule of officer cadets, the programme maintained high academic standards while offering delivery flexibility tailored to defence personnel. Experienced faculty members and technical experts from SRMIST delivered the curriculum in close coordination with OTA authorities.
Lt. Gen. Michael A.J. Fernandez, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, Commandant, OTA, Chennai, acknowledged the importance of integrating advanced technological education into military training.
“The introduction of structured IT and Cyber Security education within the training framework significantly enhances the professional competence of officer cadets in contemporary digital battlespace.”
Addressing the gathering, Prof. C. Muthamizhchelvan, Vice Chancellor, SRMIST, highlighted the changing nature of global security and the increasing relevance of digital and cyber domains in defence preparedness.
“The nature of conflict has moved beyond physical borders. Today, the security of India is managed as much through a computer screen as it is on the ground. Your completion of the Diploma in Information Technology and Cyber Security is not merely an academic milestone; it is a strategic reinforcement of our national shield.”
He further noted that the programme was uniquely designed to accommodate the demanding schedule of officer cadets at OTA, ensuring flexibility without compromising academic rigour.
“We consciously curated a programme tailored to your training environment. While the delivery was adapted to suit your commitments at the Academy, the academic standards remained uncompromised. Those who serve the nation deserve the highest quality of education.”
Diploma in Information Technology and Cyber Security, SRM Faculty of Science and Humanities, SRMIST, focuses on fundamentals of information technology, network security, secure systems design, cyber hygiene, incident response, and emerging areas such as cyber warfare, artificial intelligence applications, and information assurance. The course delivery includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, exercises, projects, and continuous assessments designed around realistic operational scenarios.
Dr. S. Ponnusamy, Registrar, SRMIST; Prof. A. Vinay Kumar, Pro Vice-Chancellor (FSH, Management, Law), SRMIST; Senior officers from OTA, and the graduating officer cadets attended the ceremony. The cadets who successfully completed the programme were awarded the Diploma certificates jointly endorsed by SRMIST.
This milestone initiative reflects SRMIST’s commitment to contributing to national capacity-building through specialised, high-impact academic programmes that align with contemporary strategic and technological priorities.