The Automotive Skill Development Council (ASDC), India’s first sector skill council, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Steinbeis University in Germany to introduce a 1+1 Master’s Programme aimed at providing students with global exposure, industry-relevant education, and enhanced career opportunities, including job prospects post-graduation before returning to The signing ceremony was recently held in New Delhi, in the presence of the ASDC Chairman, CEO, and Steinbeis University delegation.
The 1+1 Master’s Programme will offer students a unique opportunity to pursue one year of study at a partnering Indian university, followed by a second year at Steinbeis University in Germany, leading to a dual-degree certification. Beyond academic excellence, the course aims to help students find jobs in Germany after graduation, allowing them to get international work experience before returning to India.
Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, F R Singhvi, President of ASDC, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating:
The automotive industry is undergoing rapid transformation with advancements in technology and increasing global integrations. This partnership with Steinbeis University will provide Indian students an unparalleled opportunity to gain international insights, engage in cutting-edge research, and strengthen their industry connections. We at ASDC are committed to fostering international collaborations that prepare students for the evolving mobility ecosystem and equip them with the skills needed for the future of the automotive industry.
This collaboration transforms higher education in the automotive industry by providing students with internationally recognized credentials, hands-on industry training, and exposure to cutting-edge global automotive technologies.
Dr. Prof. Bertram Lohmüller, Director, SUTM Steinbeis School for Sustainable Technology & Management GmbH, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration:
This partnership between Steinbeis University and ASDC represents a significant step towards creating a globally competitive workforce in the automotive sector. The 1+1 Master’s Programme is designed to provide students with academic excellence and industry exposure that aligns with the evolving needs of the mobility sector. By integrating applied research, innovation, and hands-on learning, we aim to equip students with the skills necessary to thrive in an international environment. We look forward to strengthening this collaboration and fostering new opportunities for academic and industry partnerships.
Some of India’s leading institutions have already signed on to the initiative, including Sri Eshwar College of Engineering in Coimbatore, Sathyabama University in Chennai, and Karpagam Academy of Higher Education in Coimbatore. By joining this effort, these universities will improve their global academic reputation, attract top students seeking dual-degree options, and gain access to Steinbeis University’s enormous industry network.
The association will also help faculty development through specialized Trainer-of-Trainers (ToT) programmes, improving the universities’ teaching capabilities and research output.
