Maxion Wheels, a global leader in manufacturing wheels for passenger cars, light trucks, buses, and commercial vehicles, has launched its renowned Formare programme in India, marking the first expansion of the initiative outside the Americas. The programme, already running successfully in Mexico and Brazil, will extend its reach to South Africa next year.
Speaking to Mobility Outlook, Pieter Klinkers, CEO of Maxion Wheels noted that while the Formare programme in Mexico and Brazil was structured around a secondary education framework, the curriculum for India will be uniquely tailored with a stronger emphasis on technology at the diploma level. 'We aim to align the programme with the skillset and talent pool prevalent in the region,' he added.
India was selected as the third country for the Formare initiative, aligned with the government's focus on uplifting the economically weaker sections and fostering skill development. The programme offers comprehensive academic scholarships, ensuring that students receive not only 100% tuition reimbursement but also uniforms, transportation, meals, and a monthly stipend. Upon successful completion of the two-year programme, participants will earn a Manufacturing Technology Diploma, preparing them for diverse opportunities in the job market.
Established in collaboration with the Iochpe Foundation, which celebrates its 35th anniversary, and Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), Formare in India is designed to uplift underprivileged youth by combining academic rigor with real-world industry exposure. The programme aims to empower students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to build successful careers while contributing to the nation's progress.
Marcos Oliveira, President and CEO of Iochpe-Maxion, said, “For more than 35 years, we have connected classroom learning with real-world workplace experiences for thousands of students in Brazil and Mexico. We are thrilled to bring these social benefits to India.”
Klinkers said, “India is really the right choice for us to set up a Formare programme, outside Americas.” He emphasised that the programme’s primary goal is to improve the employability of economically disadvantaged youth, particularly in the Pune region. Formare is not about shaping students into future employees. Instead, it provides participants with the skills and industry acumen they need to thrive in the broader job market, opening doors to diverse employment opportunities.”
Sutheep Ratnabhas, President of Maxion Wheels’ Asia Business Unit, reinforced this by highlighting the programme’s commitment to job readiness rather than exclusive company training. Formare empowers students to succeed in a wide range of careers, offering them a future filled with possibilities, he added.
Claudio Anjos, President of the Iochpe Foundation, praising Maxion Wheels for its leadership in launching the programme in India, said, for nearly 25 years, “we have worked with Maxion Wheels in Brazil and Mexico to offer education and professional training to young people who truly need it.” Formare has the power to transform lives, and its expansion into India reflects the company’s pioneering spirit and dedication to social impact.
Prof Dr Suresh Gosavi, Vice Chancellor of SPPU, echoed this sentiment, noting that the programme’s comprehensive benefits alleviate financial burdens for students. “By providing essential resources like tuition, meals, and transportation, Formare allows students to focus entirely on their education and professional development.”
With the introduction of Formare in India, Maxion Wheels continues to extend its legacy of empowering underprivileged communities, offering life-changing opportunities for education and career growth to the nation’s youth.
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