President Lula Commemorates the Inauguration of Ternium's Innovative Technical School in Brazil
President Lula Commemorates the Inauguration of Ternium's Innovative Technical School in Brazil
On March 6, 2026, a remarkable event took place in Santa Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, as President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva officially inaugurated the Roberto Rocca Technical School. This institution, funded by a BRL 260 million investment from Ternium, is part of the Techint Group's global education initiative and is designed exclusively for youth in the local community, offering specialized training in Electromechanics and Mechatronics.
The inauguration was attended by key figures including Paolo Rocca, President of the Techint Group, and Máximo Vedoya, CEO of Ternium. The school represents a significant effort to promote technical education in Brazil, directly supporting the country's industrial workforce needs. Currently, the facility accommodates 384 students, with plans to reach full capacity of 576 students by 2027, all of whom will receive scholarships funded by Ternium.
President Lula emphasized the vital role that private investment in education plays for the nation’s future. “This school is not merely a training center for future employees,” he remarked, “it stands as a commitment to the community's future. Investing in education is an essential step—it's not a cost but rather an investment in our country’s growth and prosperity.” Lula's speech underscored the need for business leaders to recognize their role in nurturing the future workforce.
The Roberto Rocca Technical School boasts a cutting-edge facility spanning 9,000 square meters, featuring 18 fully-equipped laboratories and modern technological tools. The school's pedagogical framework blends theory with practical applications, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for careers in key areas of the industry.
The school aims to uplift the local communities of Santa Cruz, Paciência, Sepetiba, and Itaguaí, regions historically characterized by lower social development indexes. In a backdrop where technical skills are increasingly demanded, the school provides a vital avenue for students to gain expertise directly aligned with the needs of the local and national economy.
Furthermore, Paolo Rocca highlighted the significance of this project in the broader context of Ternium's operations, stating, “With our industrial center employing approximately 8,000 people and producing high-quality steel for both Brazil and the global market, we are dedicated to integrating the community into our industry. This investment in technical education is fundamental for economic and social development.”
In light of these developments, Ternium continues to exemplify its commitment to corporate social responsibility and community engagement through strategic educational investments. The onset of the Roberto Rocca Technical School represents a crucial partnership between industry and education, one that holds promise for the future workforce of Brazil and the sustainability of its industries.
This initiative is part of a larger trend whereby industries are recognizing their responsibility to contribute to education and workforce development. With Ternium's substantial investments in Brazil exceeding BRL 25 billion to date, there is a clear emphasis on cultivating not just a skilled workforce, but a prepared public that can adequately respond to the industrial demands of tomorrow.
In conclusion, the inauguration of the Roberto Rocca Technical School serves as a beacon of hope and a model for future educational initiatives within corporate contexts, setting a precedent for similar ventures across Brazil and beyond.