Canon India has taken a major step forward in youth skill development by enhancing its Apprenticeship Training Program in partnership with the Japan-India Institute for Manufacturing (JIM). Originally launched in 2015 as part of the Skill India initiative, Canon’s program annually recruits 30-35 apprentices across various locations in India. This new collaboration aims to strengthen and standardize the program at the Canon Technical Excellence Centre (CTEC) in Noida. The Japan-India Institute for Manufacturing, established under a 2016 MOU between Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and India’s Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, supports this effort. The revamped program offers a comprehensive curriculum for engineering graduates and diploma holders, emphasizing Japanese service methods.
Mr. Manabu Yamazaki, President & CEO of Canon India, emphasized the importance of talent in industry success and Canon’s commitment to providing cutting-edge skills to India’s youth. The program, designed by industry experts, bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, fostering future leaders in the service and manufacturing sectors.
Canon’s year-long Apprenticeship Training Program for engineering graduates and diploma holders now includes three phases: an induction phase focusing on soft and system skills, on-the-job training combining product skills with service practices, and advanced training on product maintenance. The curriculum covers Kaizen, 5S, product principles, customer service techniques, and communication skills, with 4 weeks of online learning, 4 weeks of classroom instruction, and 40 weeks of on-the-job training. Graduates will be part of a talent pool for potential internal hiring and service partner opportunities across India.
Ms. Shikha Rai, Senior Vice President of HR & IT at Canon India, highlighted the program’s role in developing confident and competent professionals with a solid foundation in organizational culture and technical skills. The initiative also instills Canon’s corporate values and Japanese business practices.
Mr. Rahul Goel, Senior Director of Service & Engineering Centre at Canon India, noted that the program’s hands-on training alongside experienced Canon engineers ensures apprentices refine their technical expertise and customer service skills. The program targets engineering diploma and degree holders from the past three years, including the current year, focusing on Electrical and Electronics graduates.
