Venur: Life without dreams makes us ordinary. Curiosity is essential for nurturing dreams. Indian youth should strive with determination and dreams from their student life to become skilled and innovative professionals, said Devdas Shetty, Vice President of Schneider Electric Foundation India.

He was speaking as the chief inaugurator at the inauguration ceremony of the newly upgraded, Integrated Industrial Electrical Workshop held at the auditorium of Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara Industrial Training Institute (SDM ITI), Venur.

He emphasized that every student’s contribution is necessary to realize the vision of “Made in India.” The equipment manufactured here should not only serve the ambitious goal of “India for India” but also strive towards “India for Global.” This can be achieved only through the production of high-quality and world-class equipment, he added.

Chief Guest’s Address

Prashanth Shetty, DGM – CSR Division, Schneider Electric Foundation India, stated that students should acquire skill-oriented quality education. With a clear goal and determination, any skill can be mastered. Such education will open more opportunities in the industrial sector and enable individuals to become employers rather than job seekers.

Presidential Address

Presiding over the function, Harshendra Kumar, Secretary of SDM Educational Institutions, said that support extended by organizations and institutions for students’ welfare not only benefits the students but also strengthens educational institutions. It plays a crucial role in the holistic development of students.

He further noted that the experiences and guidance of elders should inspire students. Responsible students can achieve great heights in life. He cited the example of Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, Dharmadhikari of Dharmasthala, who assumed significant responsibilities at the age of 19 and has reached great heights through dedication and service.

Principal Vishweshwara Prasad K.R. delivered the introductory address and highlighted the growth of the institution. He said that the ITI, which began with just 30 students, has now grown to nearly 300 students. The institute achieves 100% admissions and provides 100% placement opportunities every year.

He further mentioned that the institution has already signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with more than six international companies, including Toyota, Schneider Electric, and Bosch. He expressed gratitude to Schneider Electric for donating electrical equipment worth approximately ₹22 lakh under its CSR initiative, stating that the equipment would greatly benefit students’ technical education and skill development.

Felicitation and Workshop Visit

During the event, Harshendra Kumar felicitated the chief guests, Dev Das Shetty and Prashanth Shetty. Later, along with the guests, he visited various departments including the Toyota Workshop, Fitter, and Turner sections and appreciated the facilities and machinery available at the institute.

Tool Kit Distribution

As part of the programme, Schneider Electric distributed tool kit bags to around 50 students. Symbolically, tool kits were handed over to six students: Rohith, Pradeep, Karthik Raj, Dhanush, Suraj Kini, and Chaitresh.

Students, faculty members, retired principals, alumni association members, and many others participated in the event.

The programme began with a prayer song rendered by students Prabha and Pooja. The event was compered by Padma Prasad B., and the vote of thanks was delivered by Ramachandra Shetty.