- Driving Change: ASDC and GIZ Collaborate to Create Skilled Workforce for India’s EV Industry
- Charging Ahead: New EV Technician Course Opens Opportunities for ITI Graduates in Gurugram
Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC), the sole skill body under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, in collaboration with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, a German development agency, has announced the inauguration of a pioneering short-term Electric Vehicle (EV) technician course. The course is designed exclusively for ITI (Industrial Training Institute) graduates and aims to equip them with the necessary skills to excel in the evolving field of electric vehicles.
The inauguration ceremony took place at the AMASS Skill Centre, located on the Jaipur Highway in Gurugram on Wednesday, and was presided over by Dr. Rodney Reviere, Project Head IGVET – GIZ India. This two-and-a-half-month program is part of a broader upskilling initiative and aligns its curriculum with the National Skill Qualification Framework. Students will receive training that adheres to international standards, with a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on learning.
ASDC and GIZ India are committed to training 100 students in every batch, with students being mobilized through Skill Development & ITI-affiliated centres.
Vinkesh Gulati, VP, ASDC, emphasized the increasing focus on electric vehicles in India, stating, ‘ASDC offers training programs in various areas of the EV industry, including manufacturing, maintenance, repair, and charging infrastructure. All QPs provide hands-on training and practical experience, preparing technicians including soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are essential for success in the industry.’
He further emphasized, “EV sector has generated a remarkable upswing in the demand for proficient individuals, spanning from engineers and designers to technicians and maintenance personnel. In the ever-evolving landscape of the electric vehicle (EV) industry, one of the key outcomes of skill development is the significant creation of new job opportunities.”
Dr Rodney Reviere, Project Head IGVET – GIZ India, shed light on the rising adoption of EVs in Gurgaon due to state subsidies and an expanding portfolio of EV products across various segments. He stated, “Growing consumer awareness of the importance of eco-friendly transport and the long-term cost-effectiveness of EV ownership are catalysts for EV adoption. As the industry expands, more jobs are being created, necessitating a workforce capable of keeping pace with evolving technology.”
Highlighting the role of skill development in improving the quality of EVs, Dr. Rodney added, “With the right skills, engineers and designers can create more efficient, durable, and safer EVs. Skilled technicians and maintenance workers ensure these EVs remain in excellent working condition, enhancing the overall customer experience.”
He also underscored the importance of skill development for the growth of EV infrastructure, stating, “Installing and maintaining charging stations, battery storage systems, and other EV infrastructure components demand skilled workers. Skilled professionals are crucial for correct installation and maintenance, minimizing downtime and ensuring smooth infrastructure operations.”
The collaborative effort between ASDC and GIZ India is poised to contribute significantly to India’s burgeoning electric vehicle industry while simultaneously creating employment opportunities and enhancing the overall quality of electric vehicles and infrastructure.