K. J. Somaiya Private Industrial Training Institute, in collaboration with the Institute of Packaging Machinery Manufacturers of India (IPMMI), officially inaugurated a specialized Certificate Course in Packaging Machinery Operation and Maintenance as well as Electronic Mechanic Laboratory and Launching Packaging Machinery on 1st July 2025. The course, which was first announced in April this year, marks a significant step toward bridging the gap between industrial practices and vocational education in India.
The inaugural ceremony of the renovated Electronic Mechanic Laboratory took place by Shaji Mathew, principal of K. J. Somaiya Private ITI; Mahadevan Iyer, president of IPMMI, Vivek Chinoy, vice president of IPMMI and Rtd.Lt.Gen. H. S. Kahlon, secretary, Somaiya Group. The course has enrolled 24 students in its very first batch achieving 100% admissions, indicating strong interest and industry relevance. Hence starting a new batch in January 2026.
The program is being supported by multiple industry partners through lab equipment and sponsorships. Companies like IMA PG India, Kenray Forming India LLP, Electronic Devices Worldwide, Techno Shell Automation, Infinity automated Solutions and others have contributed equipment or lab support. These donations have enabled the creation of a hands-on learning environment where students can engage with Omron automation kit , Thames side sensors, Interactive screen by Elmach Packaging India, Induction sealing machine by electronic devices, Festo automation kit ,Valco Melton training kit and Trio motion Training kit.
Highlighting the strategic vision behind the initiative, H S Kahlon, secretary, Somaiya Group, remarked, “At Somaiya, we are committed to creating meaningful collaborations that impact society. This course is a great example of industry-academia partnership aimed at addressing the skill gap in India’s manufacturing sector.”
The partnership with IPMMI ensures that the curriculum is designed in alignment with the latest industry trends and equipment. Speaking at the event, Mahadevan Iyer, president of IPMMI, emphasized, “Our goal is to equip students with hands-on knowledge in packaging machinery. There is a growing need for skilled manpower in this sector, and we are proud to contribute to skill development at the grassroots level.”
“This course is an important milestone for our institution. It not only brings specialized training to our students but also opens doors to real-world industrial experience,” said Shaji Mathew, principal of K. J. Somaiya Private ITI. “With packaging being a critical component of every manufacturing sector, this initiative is a step in the right direction.”
The certificate course is expected to provide students with deep insights into the working of packaging machinery and its applications across various industries, thereby enhancing their employability and readiness for the evolving job market.
The course embodies the spirit of the Eleanor Roosevelt quote shared at the event, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” This partnership is a testament to that belief—empowering students through practical vocational training and opening doors to real-world opportunities.
