All officer cadets of the passing-out course at the Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai, were awarded diplomas in Information Technology and Cyber Security by the SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, on August 14, 2026.
The diploma awards were conferred under the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between SRM Institute of Science and Technology and OTA Chennai. The initiative provides officer cadets with specialised academic exposure in information technology and cyber security alongside their military training.
The awards were presented by Dr T R Paarivendhar, Chancellor, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, and Prof Dr C Muthamizhchelvan, Vice Chancellor, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, along with Lt Gen Michael AJ Fernandez, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, Commandant, Officers Training Academy, Chennai.
The programme reflects the growing importance of technology and cyber security in modern military operations. Providing future officers with formal training in these domains is aimed at enhancing their understanding of emerging technological challenges and preparing them for increasingly technology-driven operational environments.
The collaboration between OTA Chennai and SRM Institute also highlights the importance of partnerships between military training institutions and leading academic organisations. Such initiatives enable officer cadets to supplement their professional military education with specialised academic qualifications.
The diploma programme is expected to contribute to the development of technologically aware officers capable of adapting to evolving battlefield requirements, including the growing role of digital systems, cyber operations and information technology in national security.
The ceremony marked an important milestone for the passing-out officer cadets as they completed an additional academic qualification alongside their military training, reinforcing the focus on professional excellence, technological awareness and future-ready leadership at OTA Chennai.
