These youngsters are turning their lives around — UPSC Current Affairs | December 23, 2025
These youngsters are turning their lives around
The article highlights the Thejomaya After Care Home's efforts in providing vocational training and support to vulnerable adolescent girls, focusing on skills like baking, stitching, and beauty care. This initiative aims to empower them for future employment and self-sufficiency, aligning with UPSC's GS2 and GS3 syllabus on social justice and skill development.
Overview The article discusses the Thejomaya After Care Home in Ernakulam, which operates under the State Nirbhaya Cell of the Women and Child Development department. The home provides vocational training to adolescent girls, equipping them with skills for future employment. The initiative aims to empower these vulnerable individuals and facilitate their reintegration into society. Key Programs and Initiatives Vocational Training: Residents receive training in baking, stitching, and beauty care. Duration: The program lasts for one year. 'Uyare' Brand: Products made by the residents are showcased and sold under this brand. On-the-Job Training: Residents participate in on-the-job training to ease their transition into professional environments. Remedial Education: Basic literacy and numeracy skills are improved through remedial education. Impact and Testimonials Shyla , a 19-year-old resident, notes significant personal growth and increased maturity. She is now considering appearing for Public Service Commission examinations . Sameera is gaining practical experience in beauty care and hopes to start her own establishment. Rani is learning beauty care and plans to support her aunt in Kottayam. Anna is focused on baking and dreams of opening a bakery in Kozhikode. Management Perspective Sreelakshmi V. , the home manager, emphasizes the importance of providing comprehensive training and support. The focus is on equipping the residents with the skills and confidence to lead independent lives. The on-the-job training is extended if needed to ensure a smooth transition into employment. UPSC Relevance This initiative is relevant to GS2 (Social Justice) , focusing on the welfare and empowerment of vulnerable populations. It also aligns with GS3 (Skill Development) , highlighting the importance of vocational training in enhancing employability. The role of government programs in child welfare and rehabilitation is a key aspect. Important Facts The Thejomaya After Care Home is located in Ernakulam . The home operates under the State Nirbhaya Cell . Training includes baking, stitching, and beauty care . The program duration is one year . The 'Uyare' brand promotes products made by the residents.