Vocational Training
ConneXions Vocational Training & Production Centre
ConneXions Vocational Training & Production Centre was founded by Markus and Katherina Freudiger from Switzerland. The project is located in the heart of one of Kolkata’s slums and has become a focal point of the community, providing skills training to young women. The training includes tailoring courses held in collaboration with Jadavpur University, paper crafts, spoken English, business skills and life values. The women are paid a fair wage for their craft work and are therefore able to become economically stable. Their self esteem and dignity are built up and they are empowered to enhance the quality of their lives.
Erica Project
Erica Project is a vocational training support for women abandoned by husbands, mothers of street children, women from red light areas and children at risk. For each, the project is a means of self-support and empowerment. The project teaches the women machine knitting and sewing, using machines gifted to Emmanuel Ministries by Mrs. Erica Chilver. The project restores their dignity and gives a reason to hope again. For street children, training under the project covers a wider range of skills, making greeting cards, embroidered items, candles and gift bags.