Ahilyanagar, February 21, 2025 – In a region where the female labor force participation rate (FLFPR) in India is striving to reach its potential, Bajaj Finserv, in collaboration with the CYDA, has taken a significant stride towards empowering women from underserved communities. A grand Certificate Distribution Ceremony in Ahilyanagar celebrated the remarkable achievements of 150 women who have overcome adversity and embraced new opportunities through dedicated skill training programs.
These resilient women, including widows, deserted individuals, those facing destitution, and survivors of domestic violence, have successfully completed comprehensive training programs in various fields, such as Computer Operation, Tally and Accounting, Housekeeping, and Petrol Pump and Security. Over the past six months, they have not only acquired valuable skills but have also secured employment, marking a pivotal step towards their economic independence and personal empowerment.
A Holistic Approach to Sustainable Empowerment
This initiative is part of Bajaj Finserv’s commitment to fostering women’s economic development in Maharashtra. CYDA’s skill development programs go beyond traditional vocational training by incorporating crucial soft skills development. This holistic approach equips women with job-ready skills and cultivates the confidence, self-awareness, and resilience necessary to navigate personal and professional challenges effectively.
CYDA’s soft skills training has been particularly impactful, providing a safe and supportive environment for these women to embark on a journey of self-discovery. They have gained a deeper understanding of their strengths, identified areas for growth, and explored the possibilities available to them. Crucially, the training has empowered them to confront their fears and anxieties about the future, equipping them with strategies to overcome these challenges and build independent, confident identities. These newfound skills enable them to articulate their needs, negotiate effectively, and present themselves with assurance – qualities that are essential for success in all aspects of life.
The hard skills training provides the foundation for their economic empowerment. These skills have not only made them employable but have also instilled a sense of capability and self-reliance. Many women have shared stories of how their newfound financial independence has enabled them to provide for their families, access better healthcare, and invest in their children’s education. It has strengthened their decision-making power within their families and communities, boosting their confidence and enabling them to take on new challenges and aspire to greater heights. This financial independence is not just about economic security; it’s about dignity, respect, and the ability to shape their own destinies.
Husbands as Allies: Celebrating Shared Success
The Certificate Distribution Ceremony was made even more special by the presence of the husbands and families of the graduating women. Their participation underscored the critical role of family support in empowering women and fostering a more equitable society. Many husbands expressed immense pride in their wives’ achievements, acknowledging their hard work, determination, and the positive impact their newfound skills have had on their families. Some husbands even shared how their wives’ success has inspired them to pursue their own educational or professional goals, creating a ripple effect of empowerment within the household.
The event served as a platform to recognize the vital role that men play in encouraging and supporting their wives’ aspirations, challenging traditional gender roles, and promoting shared decision-making within the household. One husband shared, “I used to think my role was just to be the breadwinner, but seeing my wife thrive has shown me the importance of supporting her dreams and working together as a team.” Another husband proudly stated, “My wife is now more confident and independent, and our entire family is benefiting from her success.” These heartwarming testimonials highlight the transformative power of empowering women and the positive impact it can have on families and communities.
Community Support and Encouragement
The event saw the presence of prominent figures, including Corporator Kumarsinh Vakale Patil, who chaired the program, and N.N. Suryavanshi, Assistant Commissioner of the District Skill Development, Employment, and Entrepreneurship Guidance Center. Also in attendance were Atul Jain, a member of the CG Power Company CSR Committee, Dr. Arun Pandarkar, Principal of Loknete Marotraoji Ghule Patil College, and esteemed professors, and Neela Kale, Director, CYDA, along with Swati Shirtar, Program Manager.
Mr. N.N. Suryavanshi emphasized the importance of utilizing acquired skills for economic growth and encouraged the women to explore available skill development schemes. Mr. Kumarsingh Vakale Patil pledged his support to the women in their entrepreneurial and career journeys, reinforcing the community’s commitment to their success. Mr. Atul Jain motivated the graduates to leverage their training as a pathway to financial independence, while Dr. Arun Pandarkar shared valuable insights, further inspiring the women.
A Brighter Future for All
The success of these 150 women serves as an inspiration and underscores the vital role of skill development programs, particularly those that integrate both hard and soft skills training, in empowering marginalized communities. This event stands as a powerful example of how targeted training and support, combined with community and familial encouragement, can unlock the potential of women and create a more equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
The combination of hard skills that provide economic opportunities and soft skills that build confidence and self-awareness is a winning formula for empowering women and creating a brighter future for all.
By Swati Shirtar (The author is Program Manager at CYDA)
