Aashray Abhiyan Tailoring Schools

How do we manage to impart income generation skills in our young girls. who have next to no income? How can they afford to buy a sewing machine? There are no freebies handed out. Here is how we do it. Come and be a partner in the process.

Each sewing batch in the eight centers commences by early April. However, it becomes fully operational (with 25 participants) by the first week of May.

The admission fee is Rs. 100/- which is non-refundable, with an additional Rs. 20/- per student for repairs of the sewing machines, as they often require simple maintenance. There is also a caution fee of Rs. 250/- which is returned to the candidate at the end of March upon completion of the course.

To ensure transparency, a form is filled out by the student, endorsed by the center in charge, and signed by the candidate as proof of receipt of the caution money at the end of March.

The centers are strategically located in densely populated settlements to maintain continuity.

Form Filling process

Many young girls and women who attend the centers initially lack basic sewing skills, such as threading a needle. They start with fundamental tasks like hemming, buttonholes, and hooks, ultimately completing 54 samples that are neatly organized in a file. Students are encouraged to keep their files neat and well-designed as a portfolio of their work.

By January, candidates typically learn to tailor clothes for themselves and family members, mastering accurate measurements and confidently cutting materials. The curriculum emphasizes three garments: Salwar kameez, saree blouse, and petticoat.

Encouraging young women and girls to attend daily sessions for two hours poses a challenge until they establish friendships and develop interest in the center's activities.

Dorothy Fernandes evaluates the students' work

An orientation session is conducted at all centers to acquaint the participants with the objectives. Additionally, students are encouraged to save money from day one using a clay piggy bank; those who are particularly needy often adhere to this practice faithfully.

Each center maintains a register where candidates provide a brief description of their family and personal background, helping us understand their struggles, difficulties, and aspirations for acquiring new skills.

Every fortnight, the trainer engages with the group for an hour to address issues they face during their developmental stages.

The candidates are advised on maintaining balanced relationships, the importance of family cohesion, and respect for elders. Financial management strategies are discussed, emphasizing the difference between needs and wants and avoiding extravagant expenditures. Sharing responsibilities at home is highlighted, with the mother being identified as a key figure for support. Soft skills are also imparted to promote harmonious living.

Over time, some candidates recognize the value of acquiring second-hand sewing machines. The write-ups provided by the girls help identify those in urgent need of a machine. We encourage them to save up to Rs. 3500/-, and for the remaining amount, we mobilize resources and seek beneficiaries to support this initiative.

It is a momentous occasion when a young girl who has learned sewing skills can take home a machine and a certificate. The confidence and dignity she gains from this achievement are evident in her demeanor.