India: Youth Skill Training and Employment Assistance via the Anchor Skill School

Since 2016, Panasonic Electric Works India (PEWIN) has been on a mission to uplift underprivileged communities in India, especially around its factory and business operation areas. It is focusing on providing equal opportunities and fostering employability among youth. The Anchor Skill School active in Haridwar, where PEWIN's factory is located, is a part of this effort.

Established in July 2016, the school teaches people aged 16 to 35 skills in molding parts, assembly of wiring devices & switchgear, and repair of home appliances and mobile phones. The classes are free and the students receive lunch and transportation fees from the school. It also helps them to find work once they graduate, at no cost. It takes around two to three months to complete the school, and as many as 530 students graduate each year.

Through this initiative PEWIN is providing skills to over 20,000 youths, helping to raise their employability. PEWIN maintains the school's infrastructure, while employees help by taking part. An evaluation of the initiative revealed that over 2,400 youths and their families have benefited from the project, with over 65 to 70% of them having been given job opportunities or placements. 

"In line with Panasonic's mission, it is our responsibility as industrialists to overcome poverty and bring wealth to society. At Electric Works, we believe in empowering Indian communities through various initiatives that provide basic necessities such as education, better living conditions, skillsets etc., that help shape their future. These initiatives in Haridwar are a small step towards creating and enriching the community development," says Akash Sangole, CHRO, Panasonic Electric Works India. PEWIN continues to be engaged in the overarching themes of ending poverty and human resources development support through these activities in India as part of Panasonic Group corporate citizenship activities.

Related link: Corporate Citizenship Activity Website of Panasonic Life Solutions India