GIA Brings Skill-Enhancement Training Programmes for MKSSS Students

GIA (Gemological Institute of America), in collaboration with the Maharshi Karve Stree Shikshan Samstha (MKSSS), Pune, organised its skill-enhancement training programmes, Applied Jewelry Professional™ (AJP) and SWIFT Jewellery Design, for 51 students. This training,supported by GIA’sendowment fund,was completed with a graduation ceremony for the students on August 17 at MKSSS Campus.The event was graced by the Chief Guest Mr. Milind Marathe, owner of Marathe Jewellers;Ms. Nirupa Bhatt, director for GIA in India and Middle East; and many distinguished members of MKSSS and GIA.

“GIA’s education programs offer relevant hands-on education for those seeking to enter the global gem and jewellery industry. MKSSS is doing excellent work in educating girls and young women in India. Through GIA’sendowment fund, we were able to bring GIA’s world-class skill enhancement training programmesthat are useful in the world of gems and jewellery to women looking to make a mark in the trade,” saidMs. Nirupa Bhatt. “We’re thankful for the support of MKSSS and look forward to bringing additional courses in gemmology, retail sales and design to this institution that works tirelessly towards educating women and making them self-reliant.”

The AJP programme trains participants to communicate product quality and value confidently to their customers. GIA’s SWIFT Jewellery Design programme teaches the basic principles of design and composition so that participants gain anunderstanding of whatgoes into designing collections.

Speaking at the occasion, Dr. Nitin Hadap, HOD (Fashion Designing Dept.), MKSSS, said, “GIA courses are like a satellite. It directs the graduates to find their place in the world of gemmology and jewellery design.” Ms. Shobha Supekar, Directorof Shri Manilal Nanavati Vocational Training Institute for Women – the vocational training institute of MKSSS said, “The curriculum of GIA programmes is well-designed and based on research. It is a very good blend of theory and hands-on skills.The facultyis rich in knowledge and experience. The delivery mechanism is excellent.Our students found them very interesting and informative. These programs will certainly help them to have lucrative careers in the gem and jewellery sector and make them self-reliant.”

MKSSS is a 121-year old institution committed to “Empowerment of Women through Education” and currently runs 62 educational units that are exclusively for girls and women.