In January 2008 our Vocational Training Centre started to operate. Several courses in Computer application, tailoring and fitters training have taken place. Presently courses are on in fitters/welders, electrical, tailoring, and computer application. The youngsters, usually school-dropouts with no perspective in life, are additionally learning basic English and 'Life Skills' which give them a new outlook on life. With our all-out efforts most of them found an employment or have gone back to complete their education. These beginnings are encouraging.

Our courses are meant to have 15 students in a group in order to give them individual attention and guidance. Apart from the vocational teaching, English and Life Skill classes are mandatory, as mentioned above, and additionally our training centre offers extracurricular activities like art and craft and sports. They should get an all-round training to feel life in a broader way and to discover the exciting experience of absorbing a variety of skills and knowledge. Only when they open their minds to these new fields of life, which they never had any contact with before, can their self-confidence grow and make them active members of the society.

Our concept of teaching is based on the idea of small groups, individual attention and respectful dealing with the youngsters. This demands a new learning also on the side of the trainers who usually impart their subject matter in a rigid, uninspiring and authoritative manner. Much of the success depends on the human quality of the trainer. If they radiate a warm and understanding attitude, the students feel accepted which may lead them to a change in their minds. From shy and shabby youngsters, who were wasting their time in bad company, often even turning towards criminal acts, they develop a sense of self-esteem and an aim in life.

The special concept of a Community College, which we followed in our Vocational Training Centre, is new in India. It started from the burning need of millions of uneducated youths who have lost touch with basic education and skills and are thus doomed to live a life in poverty and desperation.

We provide them with a skill that makes all the difference for them.

December 2010