The Andhra Pradesh State Skill Development Corporation (APSSDC) recently hosted a high-level Russian delegation at the Four Points by Sheraton, Visakhapa- tnam, comprising senior representatives from the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs (RSPP), leading academicians, and technical experts.

This meeting marks a major stride towards deepening international cooperation in technical and vocational education and training (TVET).

The event was inaugurated by Mr. Kona Sasidhar, Principal Secretary, Government of Andhra Pradesh, alongside Mr. Ganesh Kumar, Managing Director & CEO, APSSDC. The Russian delegation was led by Mr. Ivanov Mikhail, Deputy Chairman, RSPP, and included 12 eminent delegates from industry, academia, and technical domains, with expertise across mechanical, electrical, welding, and metallurgy sectors.

Some of the key highlights of the engagement included- Presentations by Andhra Pradesh officials on the state’s evolving ecosystem for education and skills development, Insights from Andhra University Vice-Chancellor, Prof. G.P. Raja Sekhar, on academia’s pivotal role in integrated skill initiatives, – Russian perspectives on innovative industry–academia partnerships and emerging technologies tailored for the region’s industries.

In addition an open discussion focusing on next steps for collaboration, emphasizing mutual priorities in curriculum co-development, hands-on training, apprenticeships, and technology transfer was also deliberated upon.

A major outcome of the visit was the signing of a Letter of Intent (LoI) between APSSDC and the Committee of Professional Education of RSPP.

This LoI paves the way for joint projects, co-designed training modules, knowledge exchange, and strategic cooperation aimed at preparing job-ready Indian professionals for opportunities both within Andhra Pradesh and in Russian industry sectors.

The proceedings were moderated by Ms. Seeta Sharma, Advisor – International Skilling and Mobility, Government of Andhra Pradesh.

The delegation’s visit will be followed by workshops, industry interactions, and bilateral knowledge exchanges over the coming days, reaffirming a shared commitment to global-standard skill development and impactful industry–academia collaboration.