By Sr Molly Fernandes
Goa, Mar 8: On the occasion of International Women's Day, it’s crucial to acknowledge the tireless efforts of organizations dedicated to empowering women at the grassroots level. In Goa, two such institutions, Asha Sadan Social Centre in Baina, Vasco, and Kiran Niketan Social Centre in Birla, Zuari Nagar, Sancoale, stand as witnesses to the transformative power of community-driven initiatives. These centres, working in distinct yet interconnected ways, have become vital lifelines for women facing multifaceted challenges, fostering their independence and flexibility.
Both these centres have stood tall during the last three decades and was the brain child of late Sr Mary Jane Pinto, the then superior general of the congregation of the Sisters of Holy Family of Nazareth, Sancoale, Goa.
Asha Sadan, nestled within the bustling port town of Vasco, has been a steadfast pillar of support for women, particularly those from marginalized communities in Baina. The area, often grappling with socioeconomic vulnerabilities, necessitates targeted interventions that address the specific needs of its female residents. Asha Sadan’s approach is holistic, encompassing a range of programs designed to empower women, girls, children, and youth across various aspects of their lives.
One of their core initiatives revolves around skill development and vocational training. Recognizing that economic independence is paramount, Asha Sadan provides women with opportunities to learn skills such as tailoring, embroidery, and crafting. These skills not only equip them with the means to generate income but also instil a sense of self-reliance and confidence. The centre also facilitates access to microfinance and self-help groups, enabling women to pool their resources and invest in small businesses, fostering entrepreneurship and financial stability.
Beyond economic empowerment, Asha Sadan prioritizes the health and well-being of women. They conduct awareness programmes on crucial issues such as reproductive health, hygiene, and nutrition. Recognizing the prevalence of domestic violence and abuse, they offer counselling and legal aid, providing a safe space for women to seek support and justice. The centre also organizes workshops on women's rights and legal literacy, empowering them to understand and assert their entitlements.
Kiran Niketan, located in the industrial township of Birla, Zuari Nagar, Sancoale, adopts a similar ethos of empowerment, focusing on the holistic development of women. The centre serves a diverse community, including women from migrant backgrounds and those facing the challenges of urban poverty. They have created a nurturing environment where women can access education, skills training, and support services.
Education plays a significant role in Kiran Niketan’s programmes. They provide literacy classes and remedial education for women and girls, bridging educational gaps and opening doors to new opportunities. They also conduct awareness campaigns on the importance of education, encouraging parents to send their daughters to school and empowering women to pursue lifelong learning.
Similar to Asha Sadan, Kiran Niketan emphasizes vocational training, offering courses in tailoring, computer skills, and other marketable trades. They also help women secure stable livelihoods. The centre recognizes the importance of mental and emotional well-being and provides counselling services to women facing personal and family challenges. They also organize workshops on stress management, conflict resolution, and self-esteem building, fostering emotional resilience, etc.
Both Asha Sadan and Kiran Niketan understand that empowerment is not just about providing skills and resources; it’s also about fostering a sense of community and solidarity. They organize regular meetings and workshops where women can share their experiences, learn from each other, and build support networks. These platforms provide a space for women to voice their concerns, advocate for their rights, and collectively address the challenges they face.
The impact of these centres extends beyond the individual women they serve. By empowering women, they are contributing to the overall development of their communities. Women who are educated, skilled, and empowered are more likely to participate in decision-making processes, contribute to their families’ economic well-being, and raise healthier and more educated children.
On this International Women's Day, it is essential to recognize and celebrate the contributions of organizations like Asha Sadan and Kiran Niketan. Their unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment is a proof to the power of community-driven initiatives. By providing women with the tools and support they need to succeed, they are not only transforming individual lives but also building a more just and equitable society. Their work serves as an inspiration, reminding us that by investing in women, we are investing in the future of our communities and our nation.
Celebrated annually on March 8, International Women’s Day, honours women’s achievements, raises awareness about gender equality, and promotes women’s empowerment. May, this global event serves as a platform to highlight women’s social, economic, cultural, and political contributions while advocating for their rights. In order to achieve a feminist future in which all people are treated equally, this year’s theme ‘For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment’, urges action to unlock equal rights, power, and opportunities for women.