As Assam steps onto India's semiconductor map with a major manufacturing facility coming up in Jagiroad, Morigaon, parallel efforts to build skilled human capital are taking shape in classrooms and laboratories across the state.
One such initiative is SemE-Chess, an innovative educational game developed at Tezpur University, which is helping simplify semiconductor learning through play.
The game has been developed by Rupam Goswami, Assistant Professor in the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering at Tezpur University. SemE-Chess replaces traditional chess pieces with five semiconductor devices, each governed by key performance parameters such as speed, performance, and energy efficiency.
By blending strategy with scientific logic, the game transforms abstract semiconductor concepts into an intuitive and engaging learning experience.
The initiative gains added significance as Assam prepares to host one of India's most ambitious semiconductor projects-a ₹27,000-crore assembly and testing unit in Morigaon being developed by Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test Pvt Ltd.
The facility is expected to produce millions of semiconductor chips daily and generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, serving sectors such as automotive, electric vehicles, telecommunications, and consumer electronics.
"Our laboratory, TSDL, has launched SemE-Hub, a global open-learning initiative to teach semiconductor fundamentals free of cost. SemE-Chess is part of this effort," said Dr. Goswami, who is currently at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia for postdoctoral research activities, working on advanced semiconductor devices. "As semiconductor manufacturing expands in Assam and across India, it is equally important to strengthen conceptual understanding and design-oriented thinking among students."
Though rooted in Assam, SemE-Chess has already found an international audience. The game has been demonstrated at academic institutions including N. Lakhimpur University and SRM Institute of Science and Technology, and was experienced by visitors of all ages during the European Researchers' Night 2025 in Modena, Italy.
With India's semiconductor ambitions being driven nationally under the India Semiconductor Mission, initiatives like SemE-Chess highlight how regional universities can play a crucial role in bridging industrial growth and education.
While large-scale fabrication and packaging units anchor the manufacturing side, learning tools developed in Assam's universities are helping shape the skilled workforce needed to sustain this growth.
According to Dr. Goswami, the game can be adapted for different educational levels, making it suitable for schools, colleges, and even hobbyists. "Semiconductor literacy should begin early," he said, "especially in regions like Assam that are now becoming part of the national semiconductor ecosystem."
Learners and educators can explore SemE-Chess and other free resources, underscoring how Assam's semiconductor story is being written not only in factories, but also in classrooms and creative learning spaces.
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