27st Dec 2023
A groundbreaking partnership between Maruti Suzuki and local ITIs in Gujarat transforms the lives of young technicians, setting a new standard for industry-academia collaboration.
In a bold move to address the skills gap in the automotive sector, Maruti Suzuki partnered with five ITIs across Gujarat to develop a specialized training program for aspiring automotive technicians. This two-year program combines classroom learning with hands-on experience in state-of-the-art workshops, preparing students for immediate employment in the fast-growing automotive industry. The initiative not only enhances the employability of ITI graduates but also ensures a steady supply of skilled workers for the automotive sector.
Maruti Suzuki's engineers worked closely with ITI instructors to design a curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills. The program covers the latest automotive technologies, including electric and hybrid systems, ensuring students are prepared for the future of the industry. This collaborative approach ensures that the skills taught are directly aligned with industry needs.
Maruti Suzuki invested in upgrading the workshops at partner ITIs, equipping them with the latest tools and diagnostic equipment used in modern automotive service centers. This gives students hands-on experience with the same technology they'll encounter in their future workplaces, significantly reducing the learning curve when they start their careers.
As part of the program, students undergo a six-month internship at Maruti Suzuki service centers or dealerships. This real-world experience not only enhances their skills but also often leads to job offers. The company also provides placement assistance, connecting graduates with job opportunities across its vast network of service centers and dealerships.
Recognizing the rapid pace of technological change in the automotive industry, the program includes provisions for continuous skill upgradation. Graduates are offered periodic refresher courses and opportunities to learn about new technologies, ensuring their skills remain relevant throughout their careers.
The partnership between Maruti Suzuki and Gujarat ITIs has yielded impressive results. In its first three years, the program has trained over 500 students, with a remarkable 95% placement rate. Graduates are not only finding employment quickly but are also reporting higher job satisfaction and faster career progression compared to their peers. The success of this initiative has caught the attention of other automotive companies and state governments, with plans underway to replicate this model across other regions and industries. This case study demonstrates the transformative power of industry-academia partnerships in addressing the skills gap and enhancing the employability of ITI graduates. By aligning vocational training closely with industry needs, such initiatives can create a win-win situation for students, businesses, and the economy as a whole.