SkillSonics

SkillSonics has been implementing elements of Swiss Vocational and training model in India through a pilot for the last three years. The focus was to bring the courseware and methodology of instruction from Switzerland, adapt to Indian context and make them available to Indian apprentices, teachers and instructors. The methodology combines one-two day(s) theory sessions with three or four days of extensive practical training and production work every single week at company locations. This Dual-Track methodology is at the heart of the learning process that makes it hands-on and production-ready. Teachers from the Indian Industrial Institutes and instructors from the companies were identified and trained to the same exacting standards as in Switzerland. The first batch of apprentices started in 2009. In 2010 and October 2011, two additional batches were enrolled. More teachers, instructors and examiners were trained and certified. Practical coursework was tweaked with real feedback from the practitioners. This outcome-based progress is central to ensuring that the model remains current and relevant to the industry. The pilot project exceeded all goals with 10 companies in 4 states participating through 150+ apprentices and 100+ experienced trainers. The first batch of apprentices has been awarded their Swiss diplomas after successfully completing the requirements of the course. The pilot project has proven the implementability and outcome of this model on factory floors, and provided SkillSonics with the required content and processes to broadbase the approach.