“Capacity building training equipped me with the necessary skills to become a local leader in my community. Discovering my identity as a leader I am now conscious of my inner strengths. I actively participate in the decision-making process in my community, along with other community leaders. I take a keen interest in the development of my community. People now admire my leadership skills and are cooperating with me”, Mr. Balakrishna, a participant in the 3-day training programme organised by the Indian Social Institute-Bengaluru at Ravulapalem.
Ms. Christy expressed that this training has been useful to youth who are concerned about one’s future. It was an opportunity to understand democracy and human rights. Our knowledge was deepened with the understanding of society. She said, “I have learnt that there are no limitations to the amount of good we can accomplish in society”. Another participant, Brahama Rudhra said, “I learnt how to be a leader. I learnt public speaking. I can understand and analyse social realities. I have a lot of hopes for my people. I would like to engage with government officials and work for the common good of my people.”
“It was also an opportunity for me to deepen my knowledge. Now I have a better understanding of democracy and citizenship and understood how people are affected without knowing their basic rights. I feel that we need to continue to support the marginalized communities, especially the students”, Adv. Karuna Rao.
The three-day training programme was organized from 17 to 19 February 2023 by the Indian Social Institute, Bangalore in collaboration with PARA (People’s Action for Rural Awakening), WAGE (Woman Association for Gender Equality), and SHRAMA (Society for Rural Agriculturist and Mass Awareness). There were 35 participants, and among them, 20 were male and 15 female.
Adv. Karuna Rao
Facilitator, Andhra Pradesh/Telangana