By Salvodor Pereira for BIS Mumbai

In a milestone for skill development, 21 young trainees from Don Bosco Industrial Training Institute, Chinchwad, Pune, celebrated their graduation from the Certificate Course in Lift (Elevator) Installation at Bharat School of Vertical Transportation (BSVT) on April 11. The intensive four-week, fully residential program, running from March 6 to April 6, promises 100% free pan-India placement and equips participants for booming careers in vertical transportation.

 Under the Skill India initiative, this full-time Monday-to-Saturday course blended classroom theory with hands-on practice, targeting fitters, welders, and electricians. Guided by  Fr Anton D'Souza, Director and Mr Nilesh Chandgude , Principal,  the group received dedicated mentorship from instructor Mr Salvador Pereira.

 The program thrived on strong collaborations between Don Bosco Industrial Training Institute, Ma Foi Foundation, BSVT, and KONE Elevator India Pvt. Ltd. Daily eight-hour sessions covered elevator installation techniques, electrical wiring, safety protocols (KONE-approved), real-equipment troubleshooting, and industry assessments. Trainees emerged with robust technical skills, workplace discipline, and the confidence to launch professional journeys.

 Career prospects shine bright: roles like Technician, Installation Engineer, Senior Technician, Site Supervisor, Safety Officer, and Project In-Charge await, with overseas opportunities fueled by demand in high-rise hubs. "The rapid urbanization in metro cities creates urgent need for skilled pros," noted Mr Santosh Kumar, BSVT CEO, during the ceremony. Reputed firms like KONE offer stable, long-term paths.

 The Graduation and Certificate Distribution Ceremony, held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., drew dignitaries including Ms Rowena Scurville (CSR Head, Ma Foi Foundation) and Mr Manikandan L. (Senior Manager – Operational Excellence, KONE). Highlights featured project showcases, keynote addresses, certificate handouts by KONE, Ma Foi, and BSVT teams, success stories from trainees Rational Kini and Pradeep Yadav, and votes of thanks by Mr Neville Fernandes (trainee) and Mr Salvador Pereira.

 Trainees praised the program's transformative impact. "From theory to real lifts, it built our skills and discipline," shared one participant. The initiative underscores Don Bosco's commitment to vocational excellence, bridging youth to industry while fostering national growth.

 Fr Anton D'Souza, Director congratulated the graduates: "You've gained not just skills, but values to support families and nation-building." With India's vertical transport sector surging, these alumni stand ready for success.