Ranchi 2nd Day Vocational Programs

On our second day in Ranchi, we were given a full tour and explanation of the vocational programs. At the main YMCA center, the building hosts numerous vocational classes for educated youth looking to further their studies, drop-out youth needing some vocational training, and anyone else whom cares to participate. The Y charges a nominal fee which is much more accessible to the lower income classes, than attending a different university or training program. There also our opportunities for scholarships. The classes range from 3 months to a year and a half and after completion the students are awarded certificates of completion. There is training in computer, typing, stenography and Banking/Railway/SSC Coaching, and Government Exam coaching, all of which are needed for government employment positions. There are also classes in English, Tailoring and Embroidery, Fabric and oil painting, knitting, Fine Arts, Stitching and Beautification classes. Many of the students have also formed a Uni-Y program which organizes Career Guidance classes, job fairs, debates, seminars, cultural programs, and sports and recreational activities. After viewing the vocational programs we toured the school.

In conjugation to the vocational programs the two main centers, the center of Ranchi and one in Thulwa (near the city), also house primary schools. The schools will soon be certified by the state as primary schools which is necessary for the students to get proper admittance to high school. The school in Thulwa was very nice and they are looking to actually build a high school. The children here get a very good education and like all Y funded programs the school helps with funding to reach out to lower class families in order to provide an education to all.

Finally we also were given the wonderful opportunity to be present at the certification ceremony at the vocational center in Ranchi. Many of the girls we had met the previous day at the vocational room in the slum were present to receive their certificate. In a total surprise, we were asked to give the certificates themselves to the students as they were named. We spoke some words of congratulations and acknowledged their hard work and new found skills. Then there was an open room discussion as the women asked questions about us,the United States, and our impressions of India. They really seemed to like us, and requested taking many photographs with us. It was quite an uplifting day, and a bit more light of emotion than the day prior.