Empowering Women! NR Foundation shows the way with Swavalambi Stree Autorickshaw Driving
3 min read
Mysuru: NR Foundation, in collaboration with Taliru Foundation, Rotary Mysore and Rotary Mysore East, has successfully completed the Swavalambi Stree Autorickshaw Driving programme.
The initiative was aimed at providing a free autorickshaw driving programme, designed to empower underprivileged women. In addition to motor driving skills, the women were trained in essential life skills including financial literacy, self-defense, communication skills and counselling.
Eleven women from the inaugural batch of a new initiative, have successfully completed
their training and are now certified to drive around the city. They are equipped with an RTO license, a badge, and a uniform.
The second batch of twelve women has been selected to undergo the same training program. This initiative aims to empower women with essential skills to improve their livelihoods.
R Guru, Chairman of the NR Foundation, flagged off the event, along with Chitra from Taliru Foundation, Praveen M from Rotary Mysore and Rohit Subbayya from Rotary
Mysore East.
The programme is targeted at enriching the lives of underprivileged women, who face issues due to lack of facilities, limited access to education, getting married at an early age, and a lack in the required skills to earn a livelihood. Through the initiative, the women have emerged as resilient and independent individuals, with the right skill set to earn a livelihood by driving auto rickshaws. Additionally, the skills were led by industry experts, providing their expertise on a pro bono basis.
Speaking about the milestone, R Guru, Chairman of NR Foundation said, “Empowering women is not just about providing skills, it is about unlocking potential and transforming lives. Through the Swavalambi Stree Auto Rickshaw Driving program, we are ecstatic to have
equipped underprivileged women with the means to earn a livelihood, and further fostering resilience and independence.”
Rekha, one of the 11 women that participated in the initiative said, “I am Rekha from
Pandavapura. My husband abandoned me after having three daughters, and I live with my aged mother. I am a 5th standard pass. I was struggling to earn enough money. My family members kept us away. I got a hope in life when I found out about the Swavalambi Stree programme. I changed from being a timid woman due to all the life skills sessions and I can now drive an auto rickshaw confidently.”
Manasa, part of the Swavalambi Stree program said, “Due to family situations, I could not complete my SSLC exams. I started working in a petrol bunk and then took up swiggy. I never got married and want to remain single. I have a personal ambition to own a fleet of autos and enable more women to drive.”
Dr Chitra A R, Founder and Director of the Taliru Foundation said, “The initiative is a
culmination of our commitment to empowering women through education and skill development. The Swavalambi Stree program is a beacon of hope, showcasing that with the right support and training, women can break barriers and redefine their futures.”
Rtn. Praveen N, President of Rotary Mysore added, “Today commemorates the beginning of a new journey for the underprivileged women. The Swavalambi Stree Auto Rickshaw Driving programme is a testament to what can be achieved when we come together to uplift and empower.”
– Team Mysoorunews
Mysooru News
