Despite having a vast pool of young talent, India faces a paradox of a high unemployment rate among educated youth and a significant skills gap. Image courtesy: Magic Bus India Foundation
The programme prepares first-time job seekers for the job market by developing their skills tailored to specific job segments. The group works with young people from underserved communities between the age group of 12 to 25 years, providing them with life skills and employability skills. Over the past 25 years, the initiative has empowered over 30 lakh adolescents and 3.7 lakh youth, enabling their transition from childhood to livelihood
Placing a strong emphasis on gender inclusivity, they also believe in breaking stereotypes and empowering both young women and men. Under the 'Livelihood Programme,' 60 percent of its participants are female, with 17 dedicated all-girls centres operating to nurture their potential
Trainer conducts a transformative life skills session. These sessions serve as mediums of economic upliftment, enabling youth to make informed decisions about their careers and life choices, empowering them to move out of poverty and lead dignified lives
One of the youth participants, Mantasha Shaikh opens up about her academic journey. 'I always dreamed of securing a better future for myself and my family. Despite completing 12th grade, I had no idea how to get a formal job,' she recalls. With her family’s support, Mantasha walked five kilometres daily to attend training sessions at the livelihood center of Magic Bus. 'The training gave me the skills and confidence to succeed,' she says. Today, she stands as the first and only female earner in her family, fluent in English and adept in digital literacy. 'My journey was not easy, but I never gave up. I hope my story inspires other young girls like me to never give up on their dreams,' she tells Midday
Another youth participant, Sahil Mohite from Ghatkopar traces his journey from a humble Konkan village to a dynamic retail landscape, illustrating the transformative power of life and employability skills. 'Meeting our basic needs was a constant struggle for my family,' he reflects on his family's modest income. Moving to Mumbai with the determination to help his family secure financial stability and improve their standard of living, Sahil found the support he needed in the classrooms designed to specifically help young achievers like him
According to recent statistics, only about 46.8 pct of the youth are employable, indicating a pressing need for skill development initiatives. In the face of adversaries, NGOs like Magic Bus are equipping underserved youth with digital literacy, unlocking opportunities for secure and sustainable careers in the formal sector
Collaborative learning takes centre stage via group discussions, group case studies and team projects
Youth at Magic Bus’ Livelihood Centre engage in a group activity, fostering creativity, collaboration, communication and inter-personal skills as part of the 'Standard Skilling Programme'
By imparting transferable life and employability skills, these youth participants imbibe holistic knowledge to stand prepared for the dynamic job market
Personalised attention sessions help young participants by addressing their unique learning needs and challenges, ensuring they receive tailored guidance and support to build their career
Activity-based programme empowers youth team building, leadership and communication skills. Additionally, dynamic and engaging activities, foster collaboration and team spirit
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