Pune– Spark Minda Foundation (SMF), the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of Spark Minda Group, proudly announces the launch of its Aakarshan Skill Development Programme and Saksham – Empowerment of People with Disabilities (PwDs) Center in Rajgurunagar, Pune. This center represents a significant step forward in their mission to connect with a larger community, build stronger community ties and empower individuals through diverse initiatives. After the successful intervention to make Donde Tribal village 100 percent digitally literate, the Foundation is now spreading its arm toward another corner, which was strategically identified to cater to the lesser served community in the state. Till date, SMF has imparted skill training to 15,000+ lesser priviledged youth and women with a 70% employment and entrepreneurship rate and has empowered 21,000+ People with Disabilities.
Mr. Ashok Minda, GCEO and Chairman, Spark Minda Group quoted, “Spark Minda Foundation remains committed to scale up its initiatives to reach even more communities. We plan to replicate the success of our Aakarshan and Saksham Programmes in other rural regions, expanding our footprint and continuing our mission to empower individuals and foster sustainable community development.”
Ms. Sarika Minda, Chairperson, Spark Minda Foundation quoted, “At the new center, we will continue to impart various technical skills customized to 21st century skills facilitating employment leading to better quality of life. We also endeavour to empower people with disabilities though our comprehensive center providing PwDs with required assistive aids, skill and inclusive employment opportunities.”
The primary objective of launching the Aakarshan and Saksham Center is to engage a wider audience and foster sustainable community development. By serving as a hub for skill enhancement and empowerment, the center aims to promote self-reliance and sustainable growth within the community. The new center is strategically located on the Pune-Nashik National Highway ensuring accessibility to a larger underserved community.
Through the Aakarshan Programme, Spark Minda Foundation has been instrumental in providing skill development opportunities to the community. They offer courses in Spoken English, Beauty & Wellness, Cutting & Tailoring, Computer and Tally. These courses are designed to enhance skills, support in employment opportunities and foster entrepreneurship. Aakarshan Skill Development programme was launched in the year 2013 and is operating today in 5 states in India.
Saksham – Empowerment of People with Disabilities Programme assists PwDs by providing assistive aids such as artificial limbs, callipers, sticks, walkers and wheelchairs, along with UDID registration support. Additionally, they offer job opportunities to both PwDs and Aakarshan students, promoting inclusivity and empowerment in the workforce. Saksham Programme was launched in the year 2015 and has reached to people in India, Indonesia and Vietnam.