In a significant move to empower women in the technical domain, SASTRA Deemed University in Thanjavur has joined forces with engineering major Greaves Cotton to introduce a completely free diploma programme. This initiative is specifically designed to boost female participation in the advanced manufacturing sector.
Programme Details and Key Focus Areas
The two-year diploma programme in advanced manufacturing is aimed at promoting skill development and enhancing employability among young women from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The curriculum has been meticulously crafted to provide practical, hands-on learning in high-demand technical fields that are crucial for modern industry.
The programme will focus on cutting-edge areas including industrial automation, electronics manufacturing, robotics, computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM), and firmware development. This practical emphasis ensures that graduates are job-ready and can immediately contribute to the evolving needs of the manufacturing landscape.
Financial Support and Eligibility Criteria
A standout feature of this initiative is its commitment to removing financial barriers. The diploma is offered entirely free of cost, with the university covering tuition fees, accommodation, and food for all enrolled students. This comprehensive support structure is intended to ensure equitable access to quality technical education.
Eligible candidates are women aged between 18 and 24 years. They must have passed their Class XII examination with physics, chemistry, and mathematics as subjects, securing a minimum aggregate of 45%. Furthermore, the annual family income of applicants should not exceed Rs 6 lakh. Interested candidates can submit their applications through the official SASTRA University website.
Career Pathway and Future Prospects
The programme is not just about education; it is a direct pathway to a career. Graduates of this diploma will receive dedicated internship and placement support from the organisers to facilitate a smooth entry into the professional world. This end-to-end support system—from free education to career assistance—aims to create a sustainable pipeline of skilled women professionals in technical and manufacturing roles, a field where they are traditionally underrepresented.
This collaboration between a premier academic institution and a leading industry player sets a powerful precedent for corporate-academic partnerships aimed at social upliftment and bridging the gender gap in India's core engineering and manufacturing sectors.
