May 15, 2026 TnH Global

VFS Global Foundation opens skills training centre in Mumbai with VFS Global Academy as knowledge partner

VFS Global Foundation announced the opening of its first skills training centre in Mumbai, and the sixth in India, reaffirming its commitment to equipping local youth with vocational skills for careers in travel, tourism, and retail.

The initiative supports students from underserved communities by strengthening employability and enabling long-term progress for their families. The first batch will include 30 students, who have already been enrolled. The course has been structured by VFS Global Academy, the Foundation’s knowledge partner, to provide students with future-ready training, career guidance and practical skills to help them transition confidently into employment.

The new Mumbai centre will offer a one‑month Certificate Programme for Retail Associates. With Mumbai recognised as India’s retail capital, demand for skilled retail professionals is particularly strong. Students will be trained by experienced industry practitioners, ensuring they gain accurate knowledge of the sector and are well‑positioned to secure placements upon completion.

This initiative highlights VFS Global Foundation’s commitment to empowering underserved sections of society through skill development. By offering practical, industry-aligned training, the Foundation ensures that young people gain the confidence and capabilities needed to enter the workforce.

The centre was inaugurated by Nirbhik Goel, Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), VFS Global; Dr Gayathri Vasudevan, Founder, Sambhav Foundation; Saugata Roy Chaudhury, Executive Director, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII); along with senior officials from the academy.

Speaking on the occasion, Nirbhik Goel, Chief Human Resources Officer, VFS Global said, “Skill development is central to VFS Global Foundation’s mission. Our new Mumbai centre offers underserved communities practical retail training that leads to employment and long-term family progress. With VFS Global Academy as our knowledge partner, we ensure programmes are future-ready, industry-aligned, and supportive of the Government of India’s Skill India initiative.”

Through this initiative, VFS Global Foundation continues to support youth upskilling while strengthening the talent pipeline for the retail, travel and tourism industry. In the last couple of years, the academy has trained over 2,800 students across academy programmes, university-integrated courses, corporate training and CSR initiatives.