To enhance students’ awareness of career opportunities in the solar sector, Citizen consumer and civic Action Group (CAG), conducted a series of Solar Orientation and Career Awareness Programmes for students pursuing technical education in Dindigul district. The initiative aimed to introduce participants to rooftop solar technology, highlight emerging employment prospects and encourage them to develop industry-relevant skills required for the solar energy sector.
The orientation programmes were organised at the following institutions:
- 23.06.2026 Tuesday, Time 10 am to 1 pm, at Tamil Nadu Government ITI Men, Dindigul
- 23.06.2026 Tuesday time 2 pm to 5 pm at Tamil Nadu Government ITI Women, Dindigul
- 30.06.2026, Tuesday, Time 10 am to 1 pm at Christian Polytechnic College, Ottanchathiram, Dindigul
- 30.06.2026, Tuesday, Time 2 pm to 5 pm at Palani Andavar Polytechnic College, Pazhani, Dindigul
- 01.07.2026, Wednesday, Time 10 am to 1 pm at St.Joseph Polytechnic College, Dindigul
Each institution hosted a three-hour orientation programme, allowing students from different educational backgrounds to participate while ensuring consistent delivery of the curriculum.
Resource persons and participants with CAG’s Rooftop Solar Brochure
The programme specifically targeted final-year students who are expected to enter the workforce within the next academic year. Participants represented departments closely aligned with the renewable energy sector, including Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Electrician Trade, and Mechanical Auto Electrical & Electronics. By focusing on students who already possess relevant technical knowledge, the programme sought to bridge the gap between classroom learning and employment opportunities in the rapidly expanding rooftop solar industry.
Mr.Thiru. D. Jeyaratchaga Rajarajan, Principal, Tamil Nadu Government Men’s ITI, addressing the students
The programme was inaugurated by Mr.Thiru. D. Jeyaratchaga Rajarajan, Principal, Tamil Nadu Government Men’s ITI, who appreciated the initiative taken by CAG, to help students move beyond their academic curriculum. He observed that sectors such as solar and wind energy are expected to generate substantial employment opportunities in the coming years and encouraged students to make the best use of such industry-oriented learning platforms to prepare themselves for future careers.
Mr. Bharath Ram, Senior Researcher, CAG, addressed the students
Mr. Bharath Ram, Senior Researcher, CAG, outlined the purpose of the programme and shared CAG's efforts in promoting renewable energy and green livelihoods. He explained that the orientation programme had been designed to provide students with an understanding of the rapidly evolving solar sector and the skills expected by employers. He also informed students that those demonstrating strong technical aptitude and active participation during the orientation would be shortlisted for an intensive two-day Master Class, where they would receive advanced practical training from industry professionals.
Mr. Kirubakaran, Researcher, CAG, explaining about the solar panels
The introductory technical session was delivered by Mr. Kirubakaran, Researcher, CAG, who familiarised participants with the basic principles of solar energy and the functioning of rooftop solar photovoltaic systems. Through a simple overview of key system components, he prepared students for the detailed technical sessions that followed and highlighted the significance of renewable energy in addressing future energy needs.
Mr.Sathish, solar expert, during the training session
Mr.Sathish, Solar expert, SELCO Solar Light Pvt. Ltd., provided practical insights into rooftop solar technology. Using actual solar equipment and demonstration kits, the trainers explained solar PV components, system design, installation practices, safety measures, operation and maintenance requirements, and common field challenges encountered during installations.
Students during the question and answer session
The orientation programme adopted an interactive learning approach that encouraged students to actively engage with the resource persons. After this followed the question-and-answer session:
- Why is periodic cleaning of solar panels necessary?
- What safety measures should be followed while working on rooftop solar installations?
- What is the purpose of a net meter, and how does it benefit consumers?
- Which government schemes currently support the installation of residential rooftop solar systems?
- What skills are essential for becoming a successful solar installation technician?
- What are the career opportunities available in the solar industry apart from installation work?
- How can an electrician or diploma holder become a solar entrepreneur or start a solar EPC business?
A student getting her doubt cleared during the question and answer session
At the conclusion of the programme, students who displayed strong technical understanding, confidence and active participation were identified for further learning opportunities. Five students from each institution were selected to participate in a two-day Master Class on Rooftop Solar Installation, where they will receive advanced technical exposure and practical hands-on training.
Students during the practical session with the solar components
Feedback from the students:
- Mr. M., Final Year student, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Polytechnic, I had never considered the solar industry as a career option before attending this programme. The sessions helped me understand that the sector is expanding rapidly and offers good employment opportunities for students with technical backgrounds. I am now interested in pursuing specialised training in rooftop solar after completing my course.
- Ms. N, an II-year student in the Electrician Trade, Government ITI, said the programme gave me a clear understanding of how rooftop solar systems work and the skills required to become a solar technician. The practical demonstration made the concepts much easier to understand. I hope more advanced training programmes like this are organised so that students can gain industry-ready skills.
- Ms.O, a final-year student in Electrical and Electronics Engineering at Government Polytechnic, listening to the experiences shared by the industry expert, encouraged me to look beyond conventional jobs in manufacturing industries. I realised that the solar sector not only provides employment but also opportunities to become an entrepreneur in the future. This programme has inspired me to build a career in renewable energy