“We Establish Robot Labs In Universities For Hands-On Exploration, Run Internships And Training Programmes” – Siva Kumar, Epson India
Epson recently announced a strategic tie-up with a university to provide robotics training. EFY’s Akanksha Gaur spoke with Siva Kumar from Epson to understand the thinking behind the initiative. Here is what she discovered…
Q. What technology and energy trends shape robotics, and how can industry-ready engineers be developed?
A. Engineering education is increasingly integrating mechatronics, AI, and data science alongside traditional computer science, creating students with robotics-relevant skills. However, real-world factory automation presents different challenges, and companies such as Epson help bridge this gap.
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We establish robot labs in universities for hands-on exploration, run internships and training programmes, and provide practical exposure to industrial automation. Recently, we trained 30 students and plan to train another group of 30 for 70–80 hours next quarter.
With labs in Bengaluru and Chennai and plans to expand to other hubs, we align academic learning with industry applications to help build a workforce prepared for robotics adoption.
Q. Is your robotics education programme mainly for talent development or strategic manufacturing readiness?
A. We view robotics education as a strategic pillar rather than solely a corporate social responsibility initiative.
This year, we introduced 72-hour training modules for students. Training 30 students in a few cities is only the beginning. We intend to scale the programme further and update the curriculum as new developments emerge.
The initiative will also extend to system integrator engineers so they can better understand advanced manufacturing applications. Knowledge development is critical to accelerating robotics adoption and improving manufacturing readiness in India.
Another important area is precision tooling. While standard components such as PLCs and grippers are readily available, specialised tools for specific setups remain limited. By sharing knowledge and helping develop these small but essential tools, faster customisation and deployment can be enabled, strengthening the overall industrial ecosystem.
Q. Which collaboration models link robotics education to industry, and how are they implemented?
A. We follow a hybrid approach that combines several collaboration models.
We provide input to engineering colleges when designing academic courses focused on manufacturing solutions while enabling students to gain hands-on experience in our laboratories. We also engage in joint research projects that allow students to work on real industrial challenges.
At the same time, we learn from industry practices to ensure knowledge flows both ways and students gain exposure that is directly relevant to current manufacturing needs.
Q. How are partner institutions and student cohorts chosen to boost employability and manufacturing impact?
A. We focus on both engineering colleges and diploma programmes as primary talent sources.
Recently, we trained students from MSRIT, VIT Chennai, MIT Chennai, and Sharda Shashtra University in Bangalore. These engagements are ongoing, and we plan to repeat them annually, including establishing labs that support hands-on learning and project development.
We also work with research-led universities to establish collaborative laboratories where industry experts and students can jointly develop solutions for complex manufacturing challenges. This approach combines practical industry experience with academic research, accelerating skill development, improving employability, and supporting applied innovation in regional manufacturing clusters.
Q. What gaps exist between classroom robotics and real factory automation, and how are they addressed?
A. There is a clear gap between academic robotics knowledge and real-world factory automation, which requires collaboration across mechanical, electrical, mechatronics, AI, and programming disciplines.
In our labs, students quickly realise that complete automation cannot be achieved by one person alone. They explore a wide range of industrial robots and applications, understanding where automation fits—from complex processes to simple pick-and-place tasks.
We also emphasise end-of-arm tools, such as glue dispensers, which help students understand precision, nozzle selection, and material control. This hands-on exposure helps bridge the gap between theory and practice and gives students a clearer understanding of real industrial automation challenges.
Q. How is the programme’s impact on student employability and industrial productivity measured?
A. We measure success by how effectively students are prepared to enter the automation industry.
We collect students’ CVs and share them with system integrators and other companies involved in factory automation, creating a reference pool for potential employers. We also provide participation certificates that students can use when applying for roles.
This approach positions them as job-ready candidates with foundational knowledge of factory automation. By supplying industry-ready talent, we help reduce the training burden on companies while accelerating the adoption of factory automation in India.
Q. How are advanced robotic labs funded, maintained, and kept industry-relevant?
A. Initially, we provided robots to partner universities at no cost, while the institutions supplied space and basic infrastructure.
As the programme expanded, investment became a collaborative effort, covering robots as well as safety systems, vision cameras, force sensors, and feeder units. Maintenance and upgrades are jointly managed to ensure the labs remain current and industry-relevant.
Typical equipment includes SCARA and six-axis robots, vision systems, force sensors, and automation accessories integrated to support hands-on learning and real industrial applications.
Q. How many students use the robotics lab at once, and how is it structured for industry–academia collaboration?
A. At our labs in Bangalore and Chennai, we can accommodate around 30 students at a time.
This structure enables focused, hands-on training while supporting industry–academia collaboration. Students work closely with instructors and, where applicable, industry experts, gaining practical experience that complements their academic learning.
Q. How do students access robotic labs, and how is meaningful engagement ensured?
A. Students can access our labs at no cost and are encouraged to explore projects.
Beyond lab access, we provide on-site training, integrate real research and development projects, and organise periodic seminars to share industry trends. Continuous engagement helps ensure students stay updated on emerging technologies and gain meaningful, industry-relevant experience.
Q. With 100+ students benefiting in FY 2025, how will the initiative be scaled?
A. We plan to scale the initiative by partnering with more institutions and deepening engagement with selected colleges. We are also exploring collaboration with industry associations, manufacturing clusters, and government bodies to strengthen the robotics ecosystem in India.
Currently, training is delivered by our sales engineers as part of their existing roles. However, as demand grows, we are considering establishing a dedicated training team focused solely on this initiative.
At the same time, we are expanding robotics labs across more universities nationwide. This will enable students to gain practical skills and help bridge the gap between robotics graduates and industry-ready engineers.
Q. What collective initiatives can robotics companies take to build a globally competitive automation workforce in India?
A. Knowledge sharing is the most critical initiative.
Companies need to demonstrate that automation is neither overwhelmingly complex nor excessively costly. Many MSME customers believe factory automation requires large investments or a complete redesign of production lines.
However, operations can often be automated using simple, affordable machines with straightforward designs. Sharing expertise and practical guidance encourages industries to adopt automation more quickly and confidently.
Q. Are you planning to expand to more colleges?
A. Epson currently operates lab setups in Bangalore and Delhi and is exploring engagement with more students from engineering and diploma colleges.
Students visit our labs for hands-on training, and we cover basic expenses such as lunch and small appreciation incentives to encourage participation. These costs are currently funded by Epson.
As the programme grows and more students participate, we will evaluate the investment model to sustain and scale engagement. In Delhi, the lab is located within our office.
Q. How will robotics adoption in India evolve over the next five years, and what role can global leaders play in strengthening the Make in India ecosystem?
A. Over the next five years, we expect automation adoption in India to mature significantly. Many companies will gradually shift manual operations towards automated solutions, improving precision, speed, and efficiency.
At Epson, our focus is on compact robots designed for high precision and fast operation, supported by our RC Plus software. This software allows users to program robots, simulate processes in 3D, and control systems more easily, making automation accessible even to teams with limited programming knowledge.
Global technology leaders can support this ecosystem by enabling knowledge transfer, collaborating with Indian manufacturers, and contributing to local innovation and scalable adoption of advanced robotics.