Functional Literacy
The Functional Literacy Programme of Stella Maris College launched in 1992 is a multifaceted programme undertaken with the primary aim of helping rural women attain holistic development. It embraces all the vital aspects of their lives - economic, social, political and cultural.
Started in the villages of Nemam and Kuthambakkam, the programme was later extended to the villages of Parivakkam, Karambakkam and Banavedu Thottam in Thiruvallur District.
In 1999 the programme was introduced in the village Athanencherri, Padappai Panchayat Union, Kancheepuram District . Over the years the programme has gathered momentum and gained support from the community, government officials and NGOs.
The programme is carried out with the enthusiatic support of undergraduate student volunteers with help in the planning and implementation by the faculty co-ordinators.
The significant aspects of the Functional Literacy Programme are to impart basic reading and writing skills to rural women and to help them better their economic condition by engaging them in productive employment and to urge them to re-mould themselves and their village society by means of self-help and social integration.
- Eleven Self-Help Groups have been found
- The Groups have received a revolving fund of Rs. 25,000/- each
- Training programmes and workshops in Group Dynamics, Leadership, Organisation Skills and sessions on marketing, accounting so on have been organized for the women.
- Vocational and skill development programmes such as preparation of detergent powder, washing powder, shampoo, candle making, tie and dye, etc. were conducted.
- Medical camp was organised
- Information dissemination has included areas such as hygiene, health, environment and human rights
- Children are helped with academics
- Women from the self help groups take active part in the Garam Sabha meetings
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