In a major push to future-proof its industrial workforce, Tamil Nadu is embracing global best practices in vocational training. The state, which hosts the highest concentration of factories in India, is intensifying efforts to equip its workers with advanced technical skills demanded by modern, high-tech industries.
A Tripartite Pact for Global-Standard Training
The cornerstone of this initiative is a significant tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed last month. The agreement brings together the MEPZ Special Economic Zone (MEPZ), the Gedee Technical Training Institute (GTTI) from Coimbatore, and a consortium of firms represented by the Indo-German Chamber of Commerce (IGCC). The collaboration will establish a dedicated manufacturing skill development centre at MEPZ in Tambaram, envisioned as a model facility for globally-aligned manufacturing prowess.
The new centre is designed to offer short-term, industry-specific programmes in critical areas such as CNC machining, lathe and milling operations, CNC programming, ANSYS simulation, and Mastercam-based CAM. A more advanced, long-term deep-domain programme tailored for high-precision manufacturing is planned for a second phase. This will allow trainees to specialise in sectors experiencing severe skill shortages worldwide.
German Dual Education Model Takes Root in Tamil Nadu
GTTI, run by GD Naidu Charities, is no stranger to international standards. Its Coimbatore institute already offers diplomas and post-diploma courses in tool and die engineering, mechatronics, and precision machining technology, all based on German and Swiss educational benchmarks. The institute is a pioneer in implementing the German dual Vocational Education and Training (VET) system in India, adhering to standards set by Germany's Association of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (DIHK).
G D Rajkumar, Director of GTTI, explained that their syllabus emphasises hands-on learning with a 30% theory and 70% practical training split. "The programme develops problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities, along with a foundation in shopfloor and machining skills, making students industry-ready from day one," he stated. Students train in a simulated shopfloor environment with the latest industry-grade machinery and software.
He added that evaluation is rigorous, following German assessment standards. Question papers are sourced from Germany, translated into English, and administered by IGCC in Pune. Final-year projects and viva voce exams are assessed by industry experts to gauge real-world readiness.
Bridging the Critical Skills Gap for MSMEs
Alex Paul Menon, Zonal Development Commissioner of MEPZ, highlighted that the new centre is a unique facility built on deep industry collaboration. "We want to create a very different ecosystem—not just routine training leading to employment. The German model encourages innovation. The centre aims to bridge the gap between the skills available in the market and those required by industry," he said.
The focus is on customising programmes rather than offering generic courses, aiming to create a ready pool of talent for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). These businesses currently invest significant time and resources in training new hires. The centre will also facilitate continuous upskilling for existing workers.
Echoing the urgency, Ravichandran Purushothaman, Deputy Chairman of CII Southern Region, pointed out a national challenge. "While we produce a large number of graduates, the industry continues to struggle to find job-ready technicians," he said. He noted that over 60% of MSMEs need job-ready technicians and supervisors, yet fewer than 5% of youth undergo vocational training. He advocated for making vocational skills an aspirational career choice, essential for India's success in manufacturing and automation.
In parallel, the Tamil Nadu government is reinforcing upskilling through sector-specific policies. Under the state's Electric Vehicles Policy 2023, automotive companies involved in EV production are eligible for upskilling allowances for up to 10% of their relevant workforce, supported by training subsidies for six months. V Arun Roy, Industries Secretary, indicated this model could be replicated in other fast-growing sectors.
Furthermore, the Tamil Nadu Apex Skill Development Centre for Logistics is designing a curriculum incorporating IoT, automated warehousing, and robotics. Its Managing Director, Bana Bihari Nayak, stated that such upskilling could reduce warehouse manhours by 30–40%, boosting productivity and capacity utilisation significantly.
