Bajaj Auto has launched an initiative BEST: Bajaj Engineering Skills Training, to collaborate with India’s top universities and engineering colleges to set up state-of-the-art laboratories. This programme, which is being launched in partnership with Banasthali Vidyapeeth (Rajasthan) and Symbiosis International University (Maharashtra), will be extended to 10 institutes.

The programme is aimed at skilling engineering graduates with best-in-class training in advanced manufacturing skills, thus improving employability.

The training centres will provide advanced skill training to engineering graduates (with both degrees and diplomas) and help address the skill gap in the manufacturing industry. Bajaj Auto will provide these training centres with state-of-the-art equipment procured from across the world. In the initial phase of the programme, Bajaj Auto will fund the operational expenses and over a sustained period, gradually encourage these centres to become financially sustainable.

Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director – Bajaj Auto said, “Every year, more than 12 million people enter the workforce. But with rapid changes in technology, there is a huge gap between academia and industry in making the youth job ready. With a legacy of giving back to society, we are now proud to announce our flagship CSR project that commits to bridging this gap.”

The training will focus on four critical modules, Mechatronics, Motion Control and Sensor Technology, Robotics and Automation, and Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing. The courses will equip the trainees with relevant skills, information, practice (hands-on training), and the mindset to be employment ready. The curriculum will be in alignment with the National Occupational Standards (NOSs) of employment positions within the sector. Bajaj Auto would also provide scholarships to disadvantaged students.

Pradeep Shrivastava, Executive Director-Bajaj Auto, elaborated “BEST (Bajaj Engineering Skills Training) has already partnered with some of India’s top institutes to train engineering graduates with cutting-edge skills. The labs and the programme design have been crafted by a group of senior leaders and engineers of Bajaj Auto, which emphasises our commitment to this programme. We look forward to collaborating with the industry and academia to make this initiative reach out to the deserving youth of India.”