Vedanta Skill Scool: Embracing Gender Equity

Contributing to the goal of nation-building and the upliftment of impoverished and marginalized sections of society, Vedanta's vision is centered around empowering communities, transforming lives, and facilitating sustainable and inclusive growth. The company works tirelessly with stakeholders in healthcare, education, and skill development, and places special emphasis on national and local crises. Through its efforts, Vedanta strives to give back to society and foster social progress.

The company’s aluminium arm BALCO is likewise committed to Vedanta's philosophy of giving back to communities by empowering them in achieving greater economic and social well-being. A residential skilling centre, the Vedanta Skill School, provides vocational training to make youth employable and ensures job placements. It has till date trained over 11,000 youths, with over 79% now employed or self-employed.

The Vedanta Skill School is the only skilling centre in Chhattisgarh to have received a 5-star rating from the Skill Management & Accreditation of Training Centres (SMART) program by NSDC (National Skill Development Co-operation) under the Ministry of Skill Development and Employment of the Government of India and SSC (Sector Skill Council).

The growth and advancement of women have long been hindered by gender disparity, which results in unequal opportunities being provided to them. Economic dependency further fuels the bias against women. True empowerment of women can be achieved by providing them access to equal opportunities, an unbiased learning and working environment, and enabling them to generate income on their own. Vedanta Skill School is committed to equity by maintaining 50% gender diversity at its training centre. This is a significant step towards empowering women to overcome bias and work towards their growth and economic independence. The skilling program serves as a catalyst in the empowerment of women, boosting their representation in the local and national economy. It facilitates their technical as well as personal development, which is crucial in helping them gain confidence to break through social barriers. Two shining examples of alums of Vedanta Skill School who managed to break gender stereotypes and carve their own paths are Kajal and Preeti Mahant.

Kajal, a 22-year-old from a small farming family in the village of Godhi in Chhattisgarh, is challenging gender bias in employment roles with her inspiring journey. For generations, farming had been the sole source of survival and livelihood for her family. However, as climate change took its toll on their crops, their situation worsened, and their very survival was at stake. Determined to support her family in their time of need, Kajal sought out opportunities to learn and earn. This led her to Vedanta Skill School, which offered a range of vocational training programs. When Kajal visited the school for counselling, she was immediately drawn to the electrical trade, despite societal expectations and judgments about gender-specific roles. Undeterred by these biases, Kajal made the path-breaking decision to pursue electrical work as her career path, thereby challenging traditional trade stereotypes and embracing gender equity. Her story serves as a powerful example of how individuals can break free from the constraints of social norms and forge their own paths towards a brighter future.

Preeti Mahant, a 21-year-old who hails from a small family of four. Her father is a farmer while her mother is a daily wage labourer. Preeti's life was moving smoothly until her family faced unexpected hardships. Her brother was diagnosed with epilepsy, and soon after, her father suffered from paralysis. As a result, Preeti found herself responsible for her family's livelihood. However, she did not lose hope and remained determined. With the help of BALCO, Preeti received training in the 'Foods & Beverages' trade at Vedanta Skill School. After completing her training, she secured a job at a restaurant in Raipur and now earns a monthly salary of 12,000 INR. Vedanta Skill School has helped numerous young individuals like Preeti to build a better future and sustain innumerable families. Today, Preeti stands as a shining example of empowerment.