Fostering Employment With Solar Skill Development Under Project Uddyam

Redington Foundation’s Uddyam project is in line with India’s Renewable Energy Sector and aims to create a skilled workforce expanding clean energy. Establishing a strong solar energy sector demands growing number of experienced and skilled individuals equipped with advanced technical knowledge. As part of our CSR initiatives, we launched Project Uddyam to train young individuals with high-quality skills and ensure they are ready to be employed in the solar energy sector.

Project Uddyam is a solar training program that offers theoretical and practical training. It trains on a set of technical and regulatory core competencies and advanced tools offering solutions for effective integration of renewables in emerging energy markets. The project focuses on training unemployed rural youth, fostering local enterprise and job creation. The training interventions include

• Solar PV Manufacturing technician training for 55 working days
• Solar Lighting technician training for 60 working days
• 2-months on-the-job training in collaboration with industry partners

Creating Real Impact by Creating Livelihood Opportunities

Under this project, several young individuals were trained. However, one story of impact stood out reflecting how such programs help in equipping individuals to make a mark in the growing energy sector.

Sidharth Kishorbhai Patel’s Story of Determination and Growth

Siddharth Kishorbhai Patel, a young man hailing from the quaint town of Amadpor Desaiwad in Gujarat, crafted his path to success through determination, opportunity and the right skills. He had managed to complete his high school education, despite the limited educational facilities available in his hometown. However, he lacked the qualification and skills to get gainfully employed.

By enrolling into the Uddyam Solar Lighting Technician programme, Siddharth recognised the opportunity he had to enhance his skills and broaden his horizons. This decision proved to be pivotal in shaping his future. The certified training programme had given him the foundation needed to pursue his dreams. Armed with newfound knowledge and expertise in solar technology, Siddharth seized the opportunity when he was selected to join the prestigious Neom Project in Saudi Arabia. His journey from a small town in Gujarat to securing a job at one of the most ambitious solar energy projects in the world serves as a testament to the power of dreams and opportunities that await those who dare to pursue them.

Kamlesh Ankushbhai Koli’s Story of Becoming Solar Warrior

Kamlesh Ankushbhai Koli grew up in a remote village where power cuts were frequent and he grew up watching his parents struggle under dim light of kerosene lamps. This made a deep impact, and he dreamt of bringing light to lives of many around his home and his home. However, financial hardship forced him to take menial jobs to support his family after completing his schooling. With renewed hope, Kamlesh joined the Solar PV Manufacturing course at Anil Naik Technical Institute, where his purpose was ignited again. He was fascinated by the concept of harnessing electricity via sunlight.

Kamlesh was a quick learner, often staying back after sessions to understand the finer points of solar panel assembly. solar panel assembly. His dedication and curiosity set him apart. His trainers were impressed by his innovative thinking and willingness to work hard despite all odds. After completing the course, Kamlesh was placed as a Solar Panel Assembly Operator at Pahal Solar. The first time he held a fully assembled panel in his hands, he couldn’t help but smile-he was now part of the solution he once wished for as a child. Kamlesh’s story is about a dream rekindled, a purpose rediscovered, and a life transformed. He is no longer just a dropout boy from a village-he is now a solar warrior, bringing brightness into many lives, just like he once wished someone would do for him.

Building a Workforce for Tomorrow

Like Siddharth, there are many youths who have benefited from Project Uddyam. The initiative has helped in creating a specialised local workforce through capacity building activities on energy access and offering decentralised renewable energy solutions to unemployed rural youth.