Have a skill? Then, hone it well and put it to better use … Shouldn’t this be the motto of people who are talented in some way or the other? But, what if they cannot get the right training or cannot afford it because of the exorbitant prices involved? Worry not, this is where the Literacy House located on OU Road comes into the picture with an intention to help, guide and polish the skills of such people.
Yes, we are referring to the Durgabai Deshmukh Mahila Sabha (DDMS), which was started in 1957. The institution mainly focuses on educating and empowering underprivileged women and help in their overall development. It has helped many women who showed keen interest in education and gave them the confidence to lead life. Now, they have moved a step ahead and upgraded themselves with the present demand existing in the market and are helping those who are interested in learning skill-linked courses.
To spread awareness on science, Literacy House also organises science workshops which are beneficial for school students.
The Literacy House, which is a part of Durgabai Deshmukh Mahila Sabha, offers many courses for both men and women at nominal fees. “Initially, a few courses were introduced only for women, but, these days, especially in computer programmes, we are enrolling men also,” says Naga Lakshmi, secretary, Literary House.
It’s a known fact that age is not an issue for learning; it’s only the enthusiasm and zeal that drives one to pursue their dream and passion. “The best part is that apart from youngsters, we have many senior citizens who are coming and learning basic computer courses.
Their children stay abroad and to communicate with them, a computer and internet access are a must. So, a few elderly people also seek our help to handle the smartphones gifted by their children. We can see the joy on their face when they are successfully handling their phones without help,” says Naga Lakshmi, who has been associated with the society since 1988. The staff over here is dedicated and friendly.
They invite many trainers to conduct various workshops. “We regularly conduct workshops in zardosi, maggam and tailoring, for lower fees. We train women in everything related to the field – from basics to the latest trends. And also make them capable of stitching as per the modern trends and demands of working women; many homemakers have become entrepreneurs after doing the course,” shares Naga Lakshmi.
The staffers, who have been working with the Literacy House, have seen the transformation in students – a few students who join for the Spoken English classes leave the premises on the last day conversing in ‘broken’ English. “Initially, they come with very low confidence; but, on the last day, they thank us for helping them gain confidence,” says Naga Lakshmi happily.
As everybody is health and beauty conscious these days, the institution also offers yoga, which involves basic and advanced techniques, and beautician courses. As the beauty industry has a lot of demand, this course is taught by the Government Intermediate Education Authority with the lowest fees.“Almost all the training programmes are certified by the Government. Now, it’s up to the people to make use of the facilities being provided,” concludes Naga Lakshmi. #KhabarLive
