The SWATI program, a ground-breaking initiative by Premium Transmission Private Limited is aimed at empowering young women from socio-economically challenged backgrounds. Through its robust diploma programs in manufacturing and automation, SWATI not only equips participants with education and vocational skills but also creates pathways to sustainable, long-term employment opportunities. This bold endeavor is strategically aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5 - Gender Equality and other pivotal SDGs, driving significant impact across multiple STEM learning, women’s participation workforce, and in the manufacturing industry.

Guided by the visionary leadership of Ms. Nisha Sakaria, (Group CHRO and Corporate Functions), SWATI embodies a resolute commitment to gender equality and social progress; SWATI also focuses on women empowerment, diversity, and an inclusive environment.  Under the dynamic stewardship of Mr. Karan Thapar (Chairman) and Mr. Niraj Bisaria (Managing Director), the program challenges entrenched societal norms, empowering young women to forge their destinies and become agents of change.

Recognizing the persistent gender gap in STEM jobs, SWATI addresses this disparity head-on by offering specialized education and training in STEM-related fields. This strategic intervention is pivotal in advancing the objectives of SDGs 5 and 8, promoting gender equality and economic empowerment.

As the leadership team says, “We aptly named SWATI, similar to transforming the dew drops into pearls, symbolizing the journey of nurturing the potential of young women, through the education we provide and equip them with confidence and skills to step into long-term employment.”

SWATI program (introduced by PREMIUM) is designed for underprivileged girls to promote education and vocational skills training and more importantly, make them employable. The vision of an assembly line managed by all female employees. This is a powerful step towards achieving gender equality, economic empowerment, and social progress. This holistic approach will lead to a more inclusive and prosperous society for all.

Vision:

1. Provide the best training and education facilities to deserving girls.
2. Impart hands-on skills training using the most contemporary training facilities.
3. Provide gainful employment opportunities to girls in mainstream industry sectors.
4. Increase participation of women in the workforce, especially in sectors like manufacturing & services.
5. Influence the thinking of the conventional society at large on girl education & empowerment.

Mission:  Their mission with the Premium Transmission SWATI Program is to empower girls from low socioeconomic backgrounds by providing them with opportunities for higher education, practical skills training, and employability. Inspired by the concept of a female-only assembly line, their program is dedicated to fostering gender equality, economic empowerment, and social growth. Their comprehensive approach aims to create a more prosperous, diverse, and inclusive society, where every girl has the chance to fulfill her potential and contribute to the betterment of her community and the nation. They are committed to breaking down barriers, expanding horizons, and building a brighter future for all.

Since its inception in 2018, SWATI has evolved into a comprehensive two-year Diploma course in Manufacturing Automation, effectively dismantling gender barriers within traditionally male-dominated industries. This evolution aligns seamlessly with the imperatives of SDG 5 and SDG 8; SDG 5 focuses on gender equality and aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls and SDG 8 focuses on Decent Work and Economic Growth.

Designed by industry experts at Premium Transmission Private Limited, the SWATI curriculum encompasses a wide array of subjects essential for success in the manufacturing industry, ranging from engineering and mechatronics to supply chain management and assembly line operations. This curriculum is designed as per the industry needs and it can be modified as per the requirement of the time. With hands-on experience constituting a significant portion of the curriculum, students are equipped with practical skills indispensable for thriving in the manufacturing sector, thereby aligning with SDGs 4 and 8 which focus on quality education decent work, and economic growth respectively.  A diploma in Manufacturing Automation is for 12th Pass out females for two years and a Diploma in Automation and manufacturing Excellence is for 10th Pass Candidates for three years.

The implementation of the SWATI program is characterized by a collaborative partnership between Premium Transmission and Symbiosis Skill & Professional University, ensuring inclusivity, diversity, and rigorous selection processes. The curriculum emphasizes active learning and practical experience, thereby equipping students with the requisite skills for meaningful employment opportunities. For both batches, the company took care of food, accommodation, transport, medical insurance, academic materials like laptops per candidate, uniform sets, safety shoes and safety equipment, industry visits, on job Training.  After completion of the course, PTPL provided a one-year internship to candidates, and later on they were absorbed by the company.

Demonstrating its efficacy, SWATI boasts an unparalleled 100% job placement record, with graduates seamlessly integrating into operational units and driving excellence in the workforce. This remarkable achievement directly contributes to the realization of SDG 8, fostering sustainable economic growth and decent work opportunities. Financial Independence emerged as a pivotal aspect of their transformation. Through the employment opportunities provided by the program, many Swati girls have attained financial autonomy. This newfound independence has not only alleviated economic burdens but has also instilled a profound sense of confidence within them. Empowered by their ability to support themselves financially, these young women now navigate life with a newfound assertiveness, making decisions autonomously and charting their paths with conviction. Through follow-up assessments of program graduates, tangible outcomes were observed. For instance, in the Diploma course of DMA conducted in 2019-2020, out of the 60 candidates contacted, 16 females have secured employment with PTPL & PMPL, with an additional 9 employed elsewhere. However, it's notable that 19 individuals are not currently engaged in any work, with some having chosen to pursue marriage. Similarly, in the follow-up of DMA Batch I (2021-23), out of 25 candidates, 14 have been successfully placed with PTPL, while 9 found employment in other companies. Unfortunately, the journey wasn't without its challenges, as one girl dropped out during the course, and another during her internship. These instances underscore the importance of ongoing support and mentorship to ensure the sustained success of program participants.

However, their journey towards empowerment extends beyond mere financial stability. The girls have expressed a shift in their aspirations, displaying a greater inclination towards roles beyond the shop floor. Instead, they aspire to explore opportunities in research and development or other office-based positions, reflecting their growing confidence and ambition.

Overall, the SWATI program stands as a testament to the transformative power of education and empowerment. Beyond providing job opportunities, it fosters a sense of self-assurance and ambition among young women, enabling them to carve out their destinies and contribute meaningfully to society.

With a strategic focus on the manufacturing sector, SWATI plays a pivotal role in unlocking the potential for economic growth and women's empowerment within this critical industry. By providing equitable opportunities and dismantling gender barriers, the program contributes significantly to bridging the gender gap in manufacturing employment.

Beyond mere education and employment, SWATI serves as a catalyzing force for social transformation, enabling young women to break free from traditional constraints and make meaningful contributions to their families and communities. This transformative impact resonates deeply with the aspirations of SDGs 4, 5, and 10, fostering holistic development at the grassroots level.

With a steadfast focus on empowerment, SWATI has uplifted 166 young women from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, including those from farming families and households with security guard parents. By providing cost-free residential initiatives, the program serves as a powerful deterrent to early marriages, challenges entrenched gender stereotypes, and contributes to mitigating socio-economic challenges such as the risk of farmer suicides

As a corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, SWATI generates profound social impact by empowering underprivileged girls, promoting gender equality, fostering economic empowerment, and challenging societal perceptions. By providing access to education and job opportunities, the program catalyzes community development and fosters long-term social progress.

The sustainability of SWATI is evident in its enduring impact on education, employment, gender equality, and community development. Through ongoing talent nurturing, promotion of diversity, and continued support, the program ensures lasting change in the lives of its participants and their communities, thereby contributing significantly to the attainment of SDGs 4, 5, and 8. Concerning sustainability, every year they plan to increase number of girls in the course and we are making them ready for the manufacturing industry so they can get employment anywhere. Through this medium, we are peaching the SWATI program all over the manufacturing industry.

In conclusion, SWATI stands as a beacon of hope, empowering young women to transcend socio-economic constraints and pursue meaningful careers in manufacturing and automation. With visionary leadership, inclusive skill development, and an unwavering commitment to social impact and sustainability, SWATI serves as a catalyst for a more inclusive and equitable society, where every individual has the opportunity to realize their full potential and contribute towards the achievement of global sustainable development goals.