Maxion Wheels, a global player in wheel manufacturing, has inaugurated its first Formare programme in Asia, in collaboration with the Iochpe Foundation from Brazil and Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU).
The Formare Learning Centre in Pune, India, was officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Formare is an established academic scholarship programme that has been active in Brazil and Mexico. The new initiative in India marks the program’s first expansion into the region. The program will support 26 students from economically weaker sections (EWS) in a two-year academic and industry training program. This initiative began with classes at SPPU in July and will include professional training at Kalyani Maxion Wheels’ manufacturing facility in Pune.
Marcos Oliveira, President and CEO of Iochpe-Maxion and Chairman of the Board at the Iochpe Foundation, highlighted the significance of this expansion. “The launch of Formare in India represents our commitment to enhancing lives through education and professional opportunities,” Oliveira said. He noted that the program has successfully connected academic learning with real-world experience for students in Brazil and Mexico for over 35 years.
Pieter Klinkers, CEO of Maxion Wheels, emphasized the company’s focus on community and employee wellbeing. “Formare aims to improve the employability of underprivileged youth in the Pune region. We are proud of the efforts by the company and Formare volunteers to foster a better future,” Klinkers stated.
Sutheep Ratnabhas, President of Maxion Wheels’ Asia business unit, explained the program’s broader goals. “Formare is designed to prepare students for a wide range of job opportunities rather than focusing solely on future employment with us,” Ratnabhas noted.
Claudio Anjos, President of the Iochpe Foundation, praised the initiative’s impact. “Our foundation has collaborated with Maxion Wheels for nearly 25 years in Brazil and Mexico. Formare has proven to be a transformative program, and we are pleased to extend its benefits to India,” Anjos said.
Prof. Dr. Suresh Gosavi, Vice Chancellor of SPPU, expressed his institution’s support. “We are honored to partner with Maxion Wheels in delivering the Formare program. The comprehensive support provided allows students to focus on their education and professional development,” Gosavi remarked.
The Formare program in India aims to support the Indian government’s Economic Weaker Section (EWS) and skill development initiatives. Students will receive full tuition coverage, uniforms, transportation, meals, and a monthly stipend. Upon completion, they will earn a Manufacturing Technology diploma.
Maxion Wheels, a division of Iochpe-Maxion S.A., is a leading global supplier of steel and aluminum wheels. The company operates 31 locations across 14 countries, producing 50 million wheels annually.