Kupwara, 19 Sep : A Nine-Day Swavalamban Silai Schools Capacity Building Program was kick-started here at Kalaros and Vilgam, Kupwara by ELFA International in collaboration with USHA International . The program is a part of ELFA International’s commitment to livelihood generation program and is an essential part of its Capacity Building and Leadership Programme. The event was attended by the Additional District Development Commissioner Mr. G.N. Bhat (JKAS), Mehran Khan, CEO ELFA International, Mr. Mir Iftikhar, Sr. Vice President ELFA International, Senior Management of ELFA International and Ms. Shayista, State Manager from USHA International . The Program intends to provide livelihood and income generating opportunities to 50 women from various parts of the district Kupwara who can in turn be Master Trainers, teach and mentor their fellow villagers interested in the programme. The program has been conceived with a view of ushering avenues of dignified livelihood to the trainees and kicking in a chain reaction of sorts aimed at the poverty alleviation of the beneficiaries.
Speaking on the event, Mehran Khan, CEO ELFA International expressed his concern and ELFA’s commitment to “Livelihood for all” vision. He highlighted the ELFA International’s efforts already made in this direction and expressed his intent to replicate the program in other districts, enlarging both its scope and catchment. He said that right from its inception, ELFA International has been working on programs of this kind which aim at mitigating the issues of poverty and livelihood crisis. He said that District Kupwara has been always a district of importance and priority for ELFA
Ms. Shayista, State Manager, USHA International explained about USHA’s programs in Kashmir and outside Kashmir, how USHA is working for the women empowerment across the country, she talked about the different components of the training like, Machine Repairing, Tailoring & Stitching and Life Skills. She also thanked the organizers and the participants
ADC Kupwara spoke of the commendable and tireless efforts of ELFA International with particular emphasis on District Kupwara. Expressing himself on the program, he said that it not only empowers the marginal and underprivileged but will also act as a model for others to imitate. In times of growing unemployment and economic stifling, he appraised the role of ELFA International and USHA
While as District Development Commissioner, Shri Doifode Sagar Dattatray (IAS) during the meeting with CEO ELFA International congratulated ELFA International and USHA for staring such initiatives in district Kupwara and send his best wishes for all the trainees of the program.
Pertinent to mention that upon the completion of the 9 day training program every participant will be provided with a free foot operated sewing machine and the accessories