Maxion Wheels, a global wheel manufacturer for passenger cars, light trucks, buses, commercial trucks and trailers, in partnership with Iochpe Foundation from Brazil, and Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), today celebrated the inauguration of the company’s first Formare program in Asia, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony of the new Formare Learning Center located in Pune, India.
Formare is a well-established academic scholarship program for underprivileged youth in Brazil and Mexico, and with this inauguration, begins its first Formare class in India. 26 Economic Weaker Section (EWS) students were selected for the two-year academic and industry program which began with SPPU university classes in July, and now professional training at Kalyani Maxion Wheels’ manufacturing operation in Pune.
“The launch of Formare in India is a special moment for our company – a true testament to Iochpe-Maxion’s dedication to transforming lives through education and opportunity,” stated Marcos Oliveira, President and CEO of Iochpe-Maxion, and Chairman of the Board, Iochpe Foundation. “For more than 35 years, we have successfully connected classroom learning with real-world workplace experiences for thousands of students in Brazil and Mexico and are excited now to bring this successful program and social benefits to India.”
“People and culture are at the center of everything we do, from the wellbeing and inclusion of our employees to the social and environmental needs of those who live in our communities,” said Pieter Klinkers, CEO of Maxion Wheels. “The primary objective of Formare is to enhance the employability of underprivileged youth, and in this case, for the Pune region. I’m proud of the company and many Formare volunteers who work tirelessly to create a better shared future for us all.”
“Unlike other educational scholarship programs in the region, Formare is not focused on molding students into future employees; instead, we want to give participants an opportunity to succeed in the overall job market,” offered Sutheep Ratnabhas, President of Maxion Wheels’ Asia business unit. “Formare provides job readiness and industry acumen, therefore opening doors to a wide range of employment opportunities upon graduation.”
Claudio Anjos, President of Iochpe Foundation, highlights the leadership and pioneering spirit of Maxion Wheels in launching another Formare unit, now in India: “Our foundation has worked closely with Maxion Wheels for almost 25 years in Brazil and Mexico. By offering opportunities for education and professional training to young people who really need it, Formare has the power to transform lives.”
“We are honored to partner with Maxion Wheels in realizing this program and to provide the academic education for the Formare students here at Savitribai Phule Pune University”, said Prof. Dr. Suresh Gosavi, Vice Chancellor SPPU. “The program is unique as the comprehensive benefits alleviate any financial concerns and therefore allow the students to focus wholeheartedly on their education and professional development.”
India was selected as the third country of operation for Formare, with the goal to support the Indian government’s Economic Weaker Section (EWS) and skill development initiative. Students will receive a comprehensive academic scholarship sponsored by Maxion Wheels. In addition to 100% tuition being reimbursed, they will receive a uniform, transportation, meals, and a monthly stipend. After successfully completing the two-year program, students will receive a Manufacturing Technology academic diploma.
