Pratigya Apprenticeship Program

Supervasi has developed a unique Apprenticeship Program to equip Hearing Disabled youth with all-round Higher Education, Vocational Skills and Soft Skills needed to live productive, self-reliant and fulfilled lives, making a valid contribution to the economy and society.

Background

In India the Hearing Disabled, especially those from poorer backgrounds, face tremendous challenges - lack of skills, unemployment, exploitation, social ridicule and the feeling of being a burden to their family and society.

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Program overview

The "Pratigya" Apprenticeship Program was piloted in June 2012, in Thane, Maharashtra.

The Pratigya program has resulted in a miraculous transformation in these youth - from apathetic and traumatised youth with a bleak future, to enthusiastic, capable and responsible individuals set to take responsibility for their own future and for others like them!

To tackle the inherent challenges and make a meaningful impact Supervasi has developed innovative training models, material and methods, specifically designed to help these youth blossom into all-round capable, confident and productive and employable professionals.

All-Round Training

Practical, on-the-job training in advanced Computer Skills like Graphics Design, 3D Modelling, Animation, Software Development, Web Design, Data Entry, Computer Hardware – which would normally be too difficult and expensive for them to even dream of.

Training in a complete range of Soft Skills such as English, Communication, Grooming, Etiquette, General Knowledge, IQ, Reasoning, Team Spirit, Leadership, and so on – which they sorely lack, and which are vitally needed for working in a professional field.

Training and Sponsorship to complete their higher education (i.e. Std. 12 & Graduation) – which most have abandoned due to the difficulty, and the need to work and support their families

Specially Designed Methods

The above training is provided via visual Videos, Multimedia and Software, specially created by Supervasi, to bypass their Hearing Disability and lack of English and Computer skills, and make it possible for them to advanced technical concepts in a relatively easy manner.

The Training Videos, Multimedia and Software are language-independent and can be conducted in the local language (e.g. Marathi) – for the first time making it possible for people with no computer background and knowledge of English to learn and work in these advanced fields.

These innovations also making it possible for Supervasi to rapidly upscale the project to marginalised populations across the country, without any barrier of language or skill.

Inculcating Responsibility

The programme is supervised and managed remotely, via 24x7 online surveillance system, intelligent workflow management system, and online ready guidance by a Remote Supervisor via Chat, Audio/Video Conferencing and other means.

Apprentices are encouraged to develop an attitude of responsibility, and one among them is appointed as “Captain” each week by rotation, to oversee the work, and co-ordinate with the Remote Supervisor.

This innovation, for the first time enables one Supervisor to manage multiple such Centres (5-10) – thus making it possible for Supervasi to rapidly upscale the project to across the country.

Monthly Stipend

Supervasi also provides a monthly stipend to make it financially possible for them to attend the Training, since most hail from very poor families, and many need to work to support their families.

Work Assignments

On attaining proficiency (after about 6 months), the Apprentices are set to work on a range of practical work assignments, such as Data Entry, 3D modelling, Animation, Website Design, Software Development & Customisation, Mobile Applications, Multimedia Creation, and other Computer-Based or BPO work. This gives them much-needed practical work experience, and generates the funds requried to make this much-needed Project self-sustaining and scalable.

"I always want to come to office. I also want office life. I am very happy with Supervasi Apprenticeship"
– Virendra Singh
One of the apprentices

"I like office and busy work. Become the Ambulance for the world."
– Smita Sargar
One of the apprentices

Jobs & Livelihood

On successful completion of the 2-year all-round training, these Apprentices can be fully absorbed by Supervasi (BPO work), or are free to seek employment elsewhere – thus guaranteeing them a stable career, livelihood, economic security and dignity.

"You have started a company for the deaf and dumb, and by this nice effort, the deaf & mute will be able to stand on their feet with dignity in the future. I am very comforted to hear that there are human-Gods like you in today’s times that are willing to share the sadness of us parents of the deaf & mute."

– Mr. Ramesh Shinde
Father of one of the apprentices