Highlighting the significance of the Mechatronics Apprenticeship Programme conducted by Volkswagen Academy from an industry point of view, Peter Raussendorf said, "India is fast moving towards becoming one of the largest automobile markets by 2020.

"We, as Volkswagen India, are conscientious about the fact that the industry's demand for talented professionals in the auto manufacturing sphere will continue to grow. Through our dual apprenticeship programme, we are cultivating and nurturing talent, which is absolutely necessary to drive the future of our production facility."

Vijayan KT, Head of Volkswagen Academy at Pune Plant, added "It only feels like yesterday that we selected the top apprentices from across the country for our Mechatronics Apprenticeship Programme and today they are passing out after completing their three years with us.

"Through these years, the apprentices have really worked their way up with maximum dedication and perseverance. With the future-oriented combination of theory and practical knowledge that has been imparted to them, we have created skilled work force for the growing and changing needs of an ever-evolving tomorrow."

Introduced to build industry ready talent, the Mechatronics Apprenticeship Programme has been designed such that the apprentices get hands-on experience at the shop floor as well as learn various streams like Metal, Electrical & Electronics, PLC Automation, Hydraulics, Pneumatics, IT, Welding, Robotics and CNC machines.

In the last year of their programme, the apprentices are expected to work on the shop floor with various departments on practical projects too as a part of their curriculum. In addition to these projects, the first batch of Apprenticeship Programme also built a fire-fighting car for use within the Pune Plant. Volkswagen Academy also emphasises on developing the apprentices' interpersonal skills as a part of the programme.

The programme is conducted without charging any fee to the apprentices. Additionally, a stipend is paid to the apprentices every month. Recently, the fourth batch of Mechatronics Apprenticeship Programme commenced with 16 new apprentices. Currently, there are over 40 apprentices attending this programme at the Volkswagen Academy at Pune Plant.
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