Skill Development Training for Women from Marginalised Sections

Strengthening livelihoods and economic independence through skill-building programmes.

Timeline: 2016 – 2018 | Location: Hyderabad

Context: 

Women from marginalised communities often face limited access to stable employment opportunities, vocational training, and independent sources of income. Structural barriers related to education, mobility, and financial insecurity can further restrict participation in formal livelihoods and skill development programmes.

Project Approach: 

Implemented in partnership with Mahila Sanatkar, the project focused on creating accessible skill-building opportunities for women through community-based vocational training. The programme combined practical training with mobilisation through existing women’s self-help group networks to ensure greater participation and outreach.

Building Skills and Livelihood opportunities: 

• Conducted vocational training programmes in design and tailoring 
• Offered both Basic and Advanced level training courses 
• Mobilised participants through women’s self-help group networks 
• Supported women in developing employable and income-generating skills 
• Trained 1,498 women over a two-year period 

key Learnings: 

• Community networks play a critical role in women’s participation and retention 
• Skill-building programmes can significantly strengthen women’s economic confidence 
• Accessible, localised training improves livelihood opportunities for women from low-income backgrounds 
• Long-term support and peer networks help sustain participation and skill application 

Why This Matters: Economic independence is closely tied to agency, mobility, and decision-making. By creating accessible pathways to skill development and livelihoods, the project worked to strengthen financial security and opportunities for women from marginalised communities.