Program: Youth Training for Personal Growth and Social Change

Module I: Self And Society

Place: Guru Bhavana, Hangal Karnataka

Date: July 19th, 20th & 21st 2024

Partner Organisation: Loyola Vikasa Kendra, Roshni Trust, Young Vision And Akka Mahadevi Mahila Mandala.

The three-day capacity building training program was conducted from July 19th, 20th & 21st 2024 in Guru Bhavana, Hangal, Haveri District, Karnataka. Initiated by Social Inclusion & Democracy Unit of Indian Social Institute Bengaluru in association with local NGOs/CSOs i.e., Loyola Vikasa Kendra, Roshni Trust, Young Vision and Akka Mahadevi Mahila Mandala, have ventured into the capacity building of youth for two years from 2024-2026.  This training program saw enthusiastic participation from about 42 youth (Male 23 & 19 Female) who engaged in self-awareness, self-esteem, leadership, casteism, and society in the Basic Module 1, ‘Self and Society’. The training focused on in-depth knowledge on to explore inner-self, which will help the youth to realize their potentials and move towards achieving their dreams.

Arun D.G, Pursuing BCA, aiming to become an Indian Foreign Service Officer, expressed his feelings of hope about the program. He said, “The session on leadership taught me to be courageous, to stand before a large group and express my opinions”. He learnt three things from the training program namely all the teachers, resource persons and co-ordinators are ‘Humble in Nature’, In addition to it, good encouragement to achieve my goals and development of my community, Furthermore, from day one to third day all the arrangements were satisfactory. In the upcoming modules I would eagerly look forward to learn about Self-confidence, in midst of all kinds of challenges, I want to equip myself with the ability to be an overcomer and Self-discipline. The above reasons I mentioned because, if I am clothed with these capabilities only then I will be able to empower my society.

Ms. Renuka Barangi, Bachelor’s Degree B.A, expressed that, because of this training sessions I was able to deeply assess myself which helped me to explore my abilities to achieve my dreams. I understood about the good qualities of a leader, leading to overcome my vulnerabilities. When I was asked a question, in what way this training program benefit, me, I confidently said, my eyes are opened to the social realities of vulnerable communities where I come from; caste discriminations, untouchability, atrocities of Dalits, SC/ST, Tribals, and marginalised communities. Leadership training sessions provided practical tools for effective leadership, emphasizing the importance of Honesty, Communication, Confidence, Creativity, Commitment, and Positive Attitude. I believe spreading awareness on Indian Constitution in my community at Hangal Taluk can lead to social change”.

Additionally, discussions on casteism and its impact on society encouraged critical thinking.  The program successfully cultivated informed and capable young leaders ready to address societal issues with empathy and commitment.

Mr. Manjunath M

Facilitator, Karnataka State

Social Inclusion and Democracy