The project is for training minimum 300 poor girls from slums in important life skills in Mumbai and in other districts through a resource center. They learn computer use, spoken English, photography, speech making, social networking and more. The project provides training in leadership and encourages girls' participation in community life through learning opportunities and assuring they complete school education for a productive and useful life. Our permanent center commits to do it every year.
People living in slums in/near Mumbai are mostly migrants from poor regions. They are from backward communities or minorities with conservative traditions where status of women and girls is low. Girls' education is barely encouraged and there is control over their mobility resulting in very little exposure to learning resources and no scope for for acquiring skills that are crucial for becoming active citizens and productive individuals. India ranks 131 in Gender Development Index in 2020.
The program is for safe learning spaces in slums, schools and elsewhere. 150 girls will acquire skills in English speaking, computer use, photography, public speaking and communication. They will meet local leaders on community issues, visit area resources and acquire social capital through mentors. They will learn to organize community events and make presentations. Additionally 150 girls will be covered through workshops, competitions, information fairs and films. All will finish schooling.
The project will create a replicable model for girls' empowerment. Annually at least 50 of the 150 girls will have shown leadership and become role models.140 more will have completed high school education. Boys in their communities will have learnt to respect girls. Community leaders will recognize importance of investing in girls. 150 girls will have grasped gender and health issues and learnt about available resources and how to access them.A permanent girls' resource centre will be created.
