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In a recent collaboration aimed at strengthening India's skill ecosystem, The Art of Living's Sri Sri Rural Development Programme Trust (AOL-SSRDP) signed an MoU with Svenska Institute of Technology to train youth in heavy vehicle mechanics and operations. The initiative focuses on equipping young individuals, particularly from rural and semi-urban areas, with technical expertise and hands-on experience. With the use of advanced simulators and real machinery, the programme seeks to address the skilled manpower gap in India's growing infrastructure and logistics sectors.
In a significant step towards enhancing youth employability, The Art of Living's Sri Sri Rural Development Programme Trust (AOL-SSRDP) entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Svenska Institute of Technology to offer Heavy Vehicle Mechanic and Operator Training. The MoU was signed by Shri Prasana Prabhu, Chairman of AOL-SSRDP and AOL-SSIAST, and Shri Mangesh Vaidya, Managing Director of Svenska Institute of Technology. Advertisement
The partnership aims to bridge the skill gap in India's heavy vehicle and logistics industries by training young people in practical mechanical and operational techniques. AOL-SSRDP will be responsible for identifying, counselling, and preparing candidates from rural, semi-rural, and urban regions, while Svenska Institute of Technology will deliver certified training aligned with industry standards. The curriculum will cover Heavy Earth Moving Machinery (HEMM) operations, including excavators, bulldozers, wheel loaders, and dump trucks, ensuring that trainees receive comprehensive exposure to the field.
Under this collaboration, more than 500 young individuals are expected to be trained and placed in reputed companies annually. The initiative integrates classroom sessions with hands-on practice using Svenska's advanced simulators and real heavy equipment to ensure real-world experience.
Speaking about the partnership, Shri Prasana Prabhu remarked that the heavy earth moving machinery sector plays a critical role in India's infrastructure development but suffers from an acute shortage of skilled professionals. He stated that this collaboration with Svenska Institute of Technology would bridge this gap by creating pathways for youth to gain essential expertise and contribute effectively to the nation's progress.
Echoing this sentiment, Shri Mangesh Vaidya mentioned that Svenska was pleased to partner with AOL-SSRDP, adding that the combination of modern infrastructure and practical training modules would deliver world-class technical education.
Across the country, AOL-SSRDP continues to impact lives through skill development initiatives and training centres, including Sri Sri Kaushal Vikas Kendras, prison rehabilitation hubs, and Centres of Excellence. Training extends beyond HEMM to areas such as solar energy, drones, electric vehicle technology, carpentry, plumbing, and cybersecurity, fostering a skilled and self-reliant workforce ready to meet industry demand.
Several success stories highlight the initiative's impact. Participants such as Ritika Tidke from Odisha, who progressed from a 10th-grade education to becoming a DGCA-certified Drone Trainer, credit the programme for opening new career opportunities. Similarly, Papu Buniya from Maharashtra, son of a security guard, now earns significantly through solar and electrical work, while Siddhesh Hardas from Karnataka, trained in electric vehicle technology, has been inspired to pursue entrepreneurship.
The programme also prioritises personal growth and leadership development. Trainees practise Sudarshan Kriya, meditation, and yoga to enhance concentration, resilience, and emotional well-being, alongside learning decision-making and teamwork skills. This holistic approach ensures participants emerge as confident, capable, and balanced professionals.
The Art of Living's social initiatives, inspired by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, have trained over 4.75 lakh youth at more than 147 centres, upgraded over 45 industrial training institutes, and established numerous community development projects. These efforts span skill development, education, healthcare, sustainability, and agriculture, contributing to a self-sufficient and environmentally conscious society.
Through its partnership with Svenska Institute of Technology, AOL-SSRDP continues to strengthen India's vocational landscape by creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for youth across diverse regions. By integrating technical knowledge with life skills, the initiative not only addresses the nation's industrial skill gap but also nurtures confident and capable individuals. With its holistic learning model combining modern training, leadership cultivation, and well-being practices, The Art of Living's social initiatives remain instrumental in shaping a generation of empowered, self-reliant citizens ready to drive India's development forward.
Source - PTI
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