Honeywell eyes BPO, education

BANGALORE: In a quick visit to India, the Chairman and CEO of Honeywell International Inc, Dave Cote met up with his 1,300 plus of his employees in India and a couple of marquee clients in the country. It is also reported that he has shown interest in expanding the strength of his employees in India touch 2,000 by the end of this year. The hot sector of the Indian BPO has also not missed his attention, as talks of a possible investment by the company are abuzz.

Extending a press statement the company announced that Cote, on his second visit to India, awarded scholarships to Indian students as part of an educational initiative recognising their classroom accomplishments and academic potential. This marks the launch of the Rs 50 lakh education initiative for the year 2003. Mr. Cote made the presentation to the students as part of his visit to the Bangalore-based Honeywell Technology Solutions Lab (HTSL). The 4-year-old Honeywell program provides for certain Bangalore employees to participate as dedicated mentors to counsel students during the course of their educational careers, in addition to the scholarships offered to those unable to pay for their education.

"Honeywell's commitment to education and a diverse, global workforce has proven to be a winning strategy around the world," said Mr. Cote. "This initiative is consistent with our tradition of supporting communities that supply the infrastructure for our employees and their families. With this program already paying dividends, it's extremely satisfying to know that we're helping the bright and talented students of Bangalore realise their dreams."

To make the initiative truly successful over the long term, participation by Honeywell's employees is critical, said Krishna Mikkilineni, Managing Director for HTSL. "Our volunteers are the driving force behind our social responsibility and involvement in various activities," he said. "Employees at all levels of our organisation contribute countless hours, rolling up their sleeves to take part in community-service activities. I'm confident that HTSL volunteers will continue to play an active role in this worthwhile initiative."

The community services team at HTSL drives both Honeywell's basic values and the employees' desire to serve. Efforts supported by the team include local humanitarian, medical and educational activities, as well as an extensive native village adoption program.