KJ Somaiya ITI and IPMMI launch advanced packaging and electronics lab

In partnership with the Institute of Packaging Machinery Manufacturers of India (IPMMI), KJ Somaiya Private Industrial Training Institute (ITI) opened an Electronic Mechanic Laboratory and packaging machinery on 1 July, along with a specialised certificate program in Packaging Machinery Operation and Maintenance on 7 July.

To close the gap between Indian vocational education and industrial practices, the course was initially introduced in April of this year.

The inauguration of the renovated Electronic Mechanic Laboratory took place with Shaji Mathew, the principal of KJ Somaiya Private ITI, Mahadevan Iyer, the president of IPMMI, Vivek Chinoy, the vice president of IPMMI, and retired Lieutenant General HS Kahlon, secretary of the Somaiya Group.

In the initial batch of the certificate course, the course enrolled 24 students, marking 100% admission. January 2026 will see the start of the next batch.

The program is supported by industry partners through lab equipment and sponsorships. Companies like IMA-PG India, Kenray Forming India, Electronic Devices Worldwide, Techno Shell Automation, Infinity Automated Solutions, and others have contributed equipment or lab support. 

The donations have enabled a learning environment featuring Omron automation kits, Thames side sensors, an interactive screen by Elmach Packaging India, an electronic device-powered induction sealing machine, a Festo automation kit, a Valco Melton training kit, and a Trio motion training kit.

HS Kahlon, secretary, Somaiya Group, stated, "At Somaiya, we are committed to creating meaningful collaborations that impact society. This course is a great example of industry-academia partnership aimed at addressing the skill gap in India’s manufacturing sector."

Speaking at the event, Mahadevan Iyer, president of IPMMI, emphasised, "Our goal is to equip students with hands-on knowledge in packaging machinery. There is a growing need for skilled manpower in this sector, and we are proud to contribute to skill development at the grassroots level."

“This course is an important milestone for our institution. It not only brings specialised training to our students but also opens doors to real-world industrial experience,” said Shaji Mathew, principal of KJ Somaiya Private ITI. “With packaging being a critical component of every manufacturing sector, this initiative is a step in the right direction.”

The certificate course is expected to provide students with insights into the workings of packaging machinery and its applications across various industries, enhancing employability and readiness for the evolving job market.