Bajaj Auto Foundation invests Rs 15 cr in advanced engineering skill centre at VIT

Bajaj Auto Foundation, Pune, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) to establish the Bajaj Engineering Skills Training (BEST) Centre on the VIT campus. The centre will be set up with an investment of Rs 15 crore and will offer state-of-the-art training in Electronics Manufacturing Systems (EMS) and E-Mobility. The initiative aims to bridge the growing skill gap between industry and academia by equipping engineering and diploma graduates.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Sudhakar Gudipati, Vice President — CSR, Bajaj Auto Foundation, highlighted the rapid evolution of the manufacturing and automotive industries and the resulting massive demand for a highly skilled workforce. He stated that Bajaj plans to establish more BEST centres across India to empower youth and address this gap.

G Viswanathan, Founder & Chancellor of VIT, expressed delight at the partnership and assured that the Rs 15 crore investment would create an immersive, cutting-edge training environment, giving VIT students a distinct competitive edge in the job market.

The centre will feature two cutting-edge verticals — E-Mobility and Electronics Manufacturing Systems (EMS). The E-Mobility vertical will provide hands-on training in EV Fundamentals & Architecture, Battery Technology & Pack Design, Battery Management Systems, and EV Charging Systems. The EMS vertical will offer comprehensive training in Electronic Design, PCB Design & Assembly, Surface Mount Technology, and Quality Inspection.

Ramesh V, Head — CSR, Bajaj Auto Foundation, outlined the initiative’s vision and highlighted scholarship schemes for socio-economically disadvantaged students to ensure inclusive access to quality skill development.

The MoU was exchanged between senior officials of VIT and Bajaj Auto Foundation during a ceremony held at the VIT Board Room. The event began with a welcome address by P Kuppan, Dean, of School of Mechanical Engineering. Bajaj officials were felicitated by the Chancellor and Vice Presidents.

The ceremony was attended by Vice Presidents Sankar Viswanathan and Sekar Viswanathan, Executive Director Sandhya Pentareddy, Assistant Vice President Kadhambari S Viswanathan, Vice Chancellor VS Kanchana Bhaaskaran, Pro-Vice Chancellor Partha Sharathi Mallick, and Registrar T Jayabarathi. S Sivanantham, Director of V-SPACE, delivered the vote of thanks.