By Sharmila Sarkar
Digital skills are considered indispensable for navigating the world today and for professional growth. But for even many of our youth from underprivileged backgrounds access to digital skills remain elusive.
Located in Diamond Harbour, a town and a municipality of the South 24 Parganas district in the Indian state of West Bengal, the skill development center of Anudip Foundation shines as a beacon of hope amidst the challenges faced by its community. This area grapples with significant socioeconomic disparities, as highlighted by the fact that 22 percent of its residents live below the poverty line, according to the 2012 census. Moreover, Diamond Harbour is home to a substantial minority population, further underscoring the need for targeted support and intervention.
At the core of the Bhibhakar and Namita Bhattacharya Project (BNBP) project being run here, lies a visionary digital inclusion initiative supported by the contribution of Ranjana Clark Bhattacharya in memory of her distinguished parents.
This initiative operates with the belief that digital literacy can be a powerful equaliser, breaking down socio-economic barriers and fostering a more inclusive society. Here, Anudip Foundation’s DIYA (Digital Inclusion of Young Aspirants) programs – a host of skilling courses designed for careers in e-commerce, logistics, retail, mobile payments, banking and finance (BFSI), ITES, and telecom sectors are run.
The BNBP project has ambitious objectives aiming to transform the lives of 200 rural youth from here in a span of 13 months. It aims to boost technical proficiencies, encourage digital livelihoods, and champion gender equality via digital inclusion.
One of the distinguishing features of the BNBP project is its specialised courses designed to cater to the demands of the digital economy. Through the Certificate in English Communication (CEIT) program, participants receive training in customer service and back-office operations, coupled with essential english proficiency, essential for success in today’s global marketplace.
The BNBP project centre serves as a center for learning and a catalyst for community development. By equipping youth with digital skills, the project seeks to uplift the entire region, fostering a culture of innovation and prosperity.
In essence, the BNBP project represents more than just a philanthropic endeavor; it embodies hope, empowerment, and progress. Through Ranjana Clark Bhattacharya’s generous patronage and a steadfast commitment to digital inclusion, the project is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of young individuals, paving the way for a brighter, more equitable future.