Dalmia Bharat Foundation (DBF), the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Ltd through its programme-“World on Wheels” (WoW), and Common Service Lab (CSL) has transformed over 250 individuals in the state.
The programmes aim to digitally and financially empower the rural populace of Meghalaya.
In an official statement today, the company said the training programmes are tailored for men, women and youth to enhance their digital skills and improve their income prospects.
While WoW involves equipped buses with digital literacy labs to provide e-education and digital resources in rural areas, the CSL hosts special sessions focused on digital and financial literacy modules.
“These initiatives have made a significant impact, positively transforming the lives of over 250 individuals and paving the way for sustainable livelihoods,” the company stated.
A woman from Mynkre village, Merida Bareh made remarkable journey from a struggling daily wage worker to securing a job as a skilled office assistant in an organised sector through participation in CSL program. “Her enhanced digital literacy, presentation and soft skills not only boosted her job prospects but also uplifted her family’s well-being,” it added.
Dalmia Cement Assistant Executive Director, Raju Ranjan Prasad said, “At Dalmia Cement, we are deeply committed to promote well-being and socio-economic development in the communities surrounding our region of operations. In today’s interconnected world digital literacy has become a fundamental skill set. It equips individuals with the essential skills to access information, communicate effectively and participate in the global economy. Through these programmes, we aim to bridge the digital gap in underserved communities by providing access to digital education and services, empowering them towards self-reliance and better livelihoods.”
WoW is a collaborative effort between HP Inc and the Government of India’s Digital India Initiative. Through self-contained, solar-powered digital learning labs housed in buses, the program offers digital literacy training, entrepreneurship development, e-education, and essential citizen services to rural and semi-rural areas, empowering men, women, and children with vital skills and resources.
CSL program aids students to enhance their digital and financial skills, driving their ability to thrive in the digital era and better employability. The CSL programmes have been conducted in Wahiajer, Lumshnong and Moosiang Lamare villages.