The main aim of this project is to ensure overall development of the economically weaker sections of the society and giving them the opportunity to earn a dignified living and dream for a better tomorrow. For the same, education and training are provided to the unskilled and unemployed youth living in Kalyan East slums.
Located in Thane District, Kalyan is known for providing a significant workforce for the economy of Mumbai. The area has a population of approximately 25,000 that includes people belonging to lower income groups of the society. Most of the families residing in the slums of Kalyan East are deprived of formal education, with 60% of them comprising school drop-out population.
The remaining 40% might have completed their graduation, but still lack the skills to land a white-collar job. Thus, these people either take up a menial labor job or work on daily wages in small scale industries. This project targets such youth and gives them access to developmental programmes in English proficiency, computer literacy, basic management and sales to explore untapped job opportunities.
Smile Foundation has partnered with Gosavi Bahuuddeshiya Sanstha for implementing this STeP project.