Germany's Freudenberg expands Nagapattinam Training Centre in India

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Germany's Freudenberg expands Nagapattinam Training Centre in India

Germany's Freudenberg expands Nagapattinam Training Centre in India

Industry News
Jun 17,25

Freudenberg India has invested Rs 400 million over 16 years to uplift local youth and empower women through vocational education and skill development.

Germany's Freudenberg expands Nagapattinam Training Centre in India

Chennai

Germany-based global technology group, Freudenberg, on 13 June 2025, announced the expansion of its vocational training institute in Nagapattinam. Esther Maria Loidl, Chief Human Resources Officer of Freudenberg & Co. and a member of the global management board, laid the foundation stone for the new expansion and auditorium alongside G Sivasailam, Director & CEO of Freudenberg Regional Corporate Centre India and Managing Director of Freudenberg Performance Materials India, and Dr Chitrakala Mohan, Principal of Freudenberg Training Centre.

The Group has invested over Rs 400 million in the region over 16 years to uplift local communities. The latest investment focuses on encouraging women students to pursue vocational education and build sustainable careers. Plans include converting the current auditorium into a computer lab for digital learning and offering computer-based courses. A new facility extension is set for completion in early 2026 and will be equipped with advanced infrastructure. Through this expansion, Freudenberg aims to promote inclusivity and diversity while creating opportunities for financial independence and personal growth.

The Freudenberg Training Centre was established in 2008 to support youth following the 2004 tsunami. It offers vocational training in welding, fitting, machining, motor mechanics, and electrical trades. Located on a 28-acre campus, the Centre is led by an experienced academic and supported by 18 qualified staff. It has trained over 1,400 students, many of whom are now employed at Freudenberg companies or leading Indian firms like Hyundai, TVS, and Simpson Group. Some alumni have become successful entrepreneurs in the region.

Speaking at the ceremony, Esther Maria Loidl stated, “It is both a pleasure and a privilege to lay the foundation for the expansion of our largest CSR initiative in India. The growth of the Freudenberg Training Centre validates our 2008 decision to empower youth in this region with practical skills. We remain committed to investing in this mission and helping fulfil the aspirations of underserved communities.”

Commenting on the development, G Sivasailam added, “The growth of this institute reflects the core values of Freudenberg—long-term commitment and responsible action. I thank the Principal and faculty for their dedication to providing quality education aligned with industry needs. Their innovations in pedagogy and course design are key to the institute’s success.”

Dr Chitrakala Mohan expressed her appreciation, saying, “It has been an honour to lead this initiative for the past seven years. The unwavering support from Freudenberg’s global and Indian leadership has been crucial to our progress. Today’s foundation-laying and upcoming developments will enhance sustainable community development through world-class vocational education and ensure our students find meaningful employment.”

Freudenberg has been engaged in business with Indian partners for over 90 years. The Group operates 11 production facilities in India across multiple sectors and employs more than 3,000 people at over 20 sites.

Freudenberg is a global technology company focused on strengthening customers and society through forward-looking innovation. In collaboration with partners, customers, and research institutions, it develops advanced technologies and quality products for around 40 industries. These include seals, vibration control systems, fuel cells, technical textiles, cleaning solutions, medical devices, filters, and specialty chemicals.

With innovation, customer focus, and diversity as its foundations, Freudenberg continues to uphold values of excellence, reliability, and responsible action. In 2024, the company employed over 52,000 people across 60 countries and recorded nearly €12 billion in global sales.