By Cl. Ethan Fortes for BISMumbai

On 17 April 2024, Don Bosco, Chinchwad, marked a significant achievement with the inauguration of its new Electric Vehicle (EV) Training Lab, a collaborative effort with Schaeffler India. This initiative, in partnership with Don Bosco, Kurla, aims to equip young individuals with the technical skills necessary for the burgeoning EV sector.

The occasion was graced by the presence of Mr Andreas Schick - COO of Schaeffler AG, along with Fr George Miranda - Executive Director of Don Bosco Development Society (DBDS). Also present for the occasion were various dignitaries from Schaeffler and Don Bosco. A delegation from Don Bosco, Kurla, the hub of EV Mobility Training in the Salesian Province of Bombay (INB) was also present for the event.

Fr Anton D’Souza - Rector of Don Bosco Chinchwad, along with Mr Yogesh Kapse - CSR Head of Schaeffler India, provided an overview of the joint ventures between the two institutions. Fr D’Souza shared some information on the work of education in the technical field all over Salesian India. He also pointed out the technical courses undertaken by Don Bosco, Chinchwad, and the number of youth that are catered to. He thanked Schaeffler for collaborating with Don Bosco in training youngsters in technical skills. Mr Kapse shared glimpses of the CSR work done by Schaeffler in collaboration with Don Bosco. Through the collaborative effort, the two institutes are able to fulfill two of the Sustainable Development Goals by the United Nations: providing quality education to the underprivileged and promoting economic growth through decent work opportunities

After a brief tour of the exisiting Autotronics lab, the dignitaries inaugurated the new EV Training Lab. A few students also shared their experience of receiving training at Don Bosco and how they were guided in choosing the right course according to their aptitude.

In his addresss, Mr Schick thanked Don Bosco for the collaborative venture taken in skilling youngsters through technical education. He was appreciative of the hardwork and dedication put in by members of both Schaeffler and Don Bosco in helping youngsters improve their family economic status.

Fr Miranda extended his congratulations to the community and staff of the institute on reaching this remarkable milestone, particularly during the bicentenary of Don Bosco’s dream. He drew parallels between this achievement and Don Bosco’s dream, lauding the efforts of the Don Bosco Chinchwad community in assisting the youth to realize their inspirations. 

The delegation expressed admiration for Don Bosco’s initiatives to collaborate with Schaeffler, expressing deep appreciation for the successful partnership. Mr Paotinlen Kipgen, a student, voiced his gratitude to both institutions for aiding him in realizing his dreams and for providing similar opportunities to many other youngsters.