Summary
Electric vehicle market in India is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate or CAGR at 90% by 2030
Higher education institutions, such as universities and colleges, offer specialised programs or courses that focus on electric vehicle technology, engineering, and related fields
India is one of the key players in the global Electric vehicle market. Electric vehicle market in India is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate or CAGR at 90% by 2030. The tremendous support of the government of India to promote the EV sector has further boost the EV industry. However, the rapid growth of the electric vehicle (EV) industry has created a significant demand for skilled workers who can design and manufacture electric vehicles and their associated infrastructure. However, there is a noticeable skills gap between the requirements of the EV industry and the current workforce capabilities. To address this gap, higher education institutions and vocational training programs play a crucial role in providing the necessary skills and knowledge to people interested in pursuing careers in the EV industry.
Specialised Skill Courses and degree programs
Higher education institutions, such as universities and colleges, offer specialised programs or courses that focus on electric vehicle technology, engineering, and related fields. These programs are intended to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of EV components, power electronics, battery systems, charging infrastructure, and related technologies. Many reputed institutes in India have launched degree courses to bridge this gap. IIT H has launched skill development through Interdisciplinary Master’s Program. This program is coordinated by a group of 22 faculty members from Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Design, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Physics and Chemistry disciplines with strong focus in EV research and training to offer PG programs as part of the institute initiative of Interdisciplinary Master’s Program.
Need for Sustainable transportation Courses
The tremendous popularity of EV is due to it offers sustainable transportation. EV runs on electricity by directly converting electricity into movement. As it does not use fuel , it does not have carbon emission. To understand EV technology better it is pivotal to introduce courses on sustainable transportation, environmental impact, and policy considerations are also essential to develop a complete understanding of the EV industry. EV sustainable transportation courses are not only necessary for aspirants but also for industry professionals who are aspiring to pursue a career in EV. This is extremely viable as knowledge and awareness will add to the expertise and innovation.
Need for vocational training courses
Vocational training programs offer a more practical and hands-on approach to skill development. Many institutes are offering vocational training programs for different levels of skills. These programs not only cater to engineers but also focus on training technicians and mechanics. These vocational programs cover a vast subject line from EV fundamentals, designs and battery management to know how to repair and maintain EVs. To bridge the skills gap effectively, vocational training programs should establish strong coordination with EV manufacturers, dealerships, and service centres. This collaboration ensures that the training programs stay up-to-date with the latest EV technology advancements and industry standards.
Collaboration between Higher Education and Vocational Programs
To address the workforce skills gap comprehensively, it is important to foster collaborations between higher education institutions and vocational training programs. These partnerships can create pathways for students to a smooth transition from vocational training to higher education programs, allowing them to gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Both higher education and vocational training programs need to establish strong ties with the EV industry to understand its evolving needs and technological advancements continually.
Interaction between Industry expert and students
To bridge the gap between EV learning and EV industry it is pivotal to offer more internship programs for students. The interaction between industry experts and students through regular industry input, guest lectures from professionals, and industry-led workshops can provide valuable insights into current trends and practices. To further develop expertise in EV technology institutes must tie up with the industry to offer internship programs for students. Some reputed institutes like IITH run internship programs in collaboration with reputed EV companies.
To bridge the skill gap in EV sector it is pivotal for higher education, vocational courses institutes and EV industry to join hands to create skilled professionals in EV technology.By providing specialised education, practical training, industry collaboration, and continuous learning opportunities, these programs can equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in the evolving landscape of the electric vehicle industry.
About the author: Rohit Vadera, CEO, PURE EV, is responsible for the business and core operations of the EV2W brand. Rohit has led the brand scaleup from incubation phase to a nationwide presence and entered the exports markets in Asian countries. Rohit has worked with international engineering firms in the offshore oil and gas industry based out of Abu Dhabi (UAE) and has significant experience in engineering design, projects execution and contracts management. Rohit is passionate about the renewable energy sector and has worked extensively in the development of wind and solar power projects in various states in India.
Last updated on 13 Jul 2023
