M&M to develop engineering skills among students

Considering the need for qualified and trained manpower for the auto industry in the future and as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, automobile major Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) is planning to take steps to develop engineering skills among students in the age group of 7-12 years.

As part of its social obligations, M&M spends one per cent of its profit on CRS activities every year. This year, M&M has said it will undertake CRS activities in Nashik with increased focus on education, health and environment.

"The auto industry facing a shortage of trained manpower. To avoid this in future, M&M has decided to develop engineering skills among students in the 7-12 age group. The company, in association with the Society of Automobile Engineers (SAE) India, will launch an innovative programme - AWIM (A World in Motion) in Nashik. AWIM will make the challenges of maths and science exciting by bringing authentic engineering design experiences into the classroom," said Pawan Goenka, President, Automotive Sector, M&M.

"In the first phase, starting next year, we will select 2,000 students from different schools in Nashik for the programme. AWIM¿s innovative, fun and challenging methods will inspire young students, who form the foundation of India's technological leadership. M&M and SAE India will partner to replicate the success of this initiative throughout the country," Goenka said.

AWIM brings math and science principles to life through interactive learning experiences that incorporate the laws of physics, motion, flight and electronics.

Each of four A World In Motion Challenges has been designed around current math, science and technology standards.

Along with education, M&M has also undertaken CRS activities in the areas of environment and health in Nashik. M&M aims at planting 1 lakh saplings in Nashik by the end of the monsoon this year.

Besides, M&M, in association with 'Aas- Centre for Hope', will conduct road shows, hold seminars and spread awareness about AIDS and its prevention. The company has formed core teams of its employees for the purpose.