This project is aimed towards sustainable development of the illiterate, destitute, socially deprived and marginalized groups living in the slums of Bandra East. This suburban village of Mumbai has emerged as a commercial and administrative hub over the decades. However, the area has a dark side too, featuring multi-storeyed slums rising up to four storeys covering the land around the railway station.
The slum colonies in Bandra East have a predominantly Muslim population among other marginalized communities that are deprived of education and thus, support their family’s income with menial jobs. Under this project, underpriviliged youth in this area are provided formal training in English Proficiency (spoken and written), Basic Computer Education and Soft Skills as primary subjects. The aim of the training module is to enhance prospects of employment of every individual.
Guidance lectures are also organized under this project on topics like personality development, career counseling and job interview preparation. Moreover, industry visits are conducted for students to provide practical knowledge of working styles in the fast expanding retail, hospitality, BPO and other sectors. Upon completion of the course, candidates are given placement assistance for white-collar jobs.
Smile Foundation has partnered with The Prem Foundation to implement this STeP Project.