Rotary Skill Development Centre Opens To Empower Women With Tailoring Training

The Rotary Skill Development Centre, situated at Dr. MGR Janaki College of Arts and Science for Women, was officially opened to provide women with free tailoring training. This initiative, a collaboration between Rotary International District 3234, the Rotary Club of Madras, the Women Empowerment, Economic Development, and Vocational Services Team, and Access Healthcare, aims to empower women by aiding them in securing employment or starting their own tailoring businesses. The centre was inaugurated by Rtn. N.S. Saravanan, District Governor of RID 3234, with AKS Rtn. Mahinder Jain, Chairman of Access Healthcare, present as the Guest of Honour.

In a significant move to support women embarking on their tailoring enterprises, the event marked the distribution of 200 power sewing machines, valued at approximately Rs 20 lakhs. These machines were given to women who have completed training at the existing skill development centres in Selaiyur, Sembakkam, and Mylapore. This gesture is part of a broader effort to foster economic independence among women by equipping them with both the skills and tools necessary to succeed in the tailoring industry.

The new centre at Dr. MGR Janaki College offers a comprehensive 120-hour tailoring course over three months. It welcomes women from diverse backgrounds, aiming to bridge the gap in vocational training accessibility. This initiative is in partnership with the Tamil Nadu Government's Skill Development Department, highlighting a collaborative approach to women's empowerment. Beyond imparting skills, the centre is dedicated to assisting women in finding tailoring jobs or establishing their own tailoring units, with the provision of power sewing machines at no cost.

The infrastructure needed for the seamless operation of this new skill development centre was provided by Rtn. Dr. Kumar Rajendran, Chairman of Dr. MGR Janaki College of Arts and Science for Women and the District Rotaract Chair. His involvement underscores the collective effort and commitment towards enhancing vocational skills among women.

With the goal of training approximately 1500 women annually, Rotary International District 3234's initiative spans across its four skill development centres. This extensive training endeavour is set to significantly impact the lives of many women, offering them a path to economic independence and skill development. The inauguration and sewing machine distribution ceremony saw participation from notable figures including Rtn. G. Chella Krishna, President, and Rtn. Rajesh Mani, Honorary Secretary, Rotary Club of Madras; along with Rtn. S. Ravi IPP, District Conference and CSR Grant Chair and Rtn. Dr. Kumar Rajendran.

This initiative not only aims to provide women with the necessary skills to thrive in the tailoring industry but also seeks to instill a sense of confidence and independence. By assisting women in starting their own tailoring ventures or securing employment, the Rotary Skill Development Centre is making strides towards economic empowerment and gender equality in the workforce.