Fifteen differently-abled youth are today earning an average of Rs. 1500 per month, thanks to their new vocational skills and home based enterprises. The first batch of 17 students graduated from Ambuja Manovikas Kendra's Skill Development Centre in August 2018 -- showcasing the potential for differently-abled youth to learn and earn.

The students learnt vocational skills in trades such as Artificial Jewellery, Pottery and Baking, in what was a year-long training program in which students were selected based on their basic ability and interest.

"We are delighted with the promise shown by our inaugural batch and have many plans to support students in expanding their home-based enterprises." Said AMK's CEO, Suresh Thakur.

"Thanks to individual donors, AMK supported 8 students whose families are financially weak, with resources to help kickstart home businesses." Suresh said.

To further support graduates in their new creative enterprises, AMK organised exhibition opportunities to showcase products created by students with local schools and universities with promising results. During exhibitions all products were sold out with gross sales totalling Rs42,000.

The training programs at AMK not only provide core training (making products and packaging), but also provide an equal emphasis on conducting orientation sessions with parents to ensure adequate at-home support for the students in their new enterprises and skillsets. Exposure visits were another crucial part of the training.

"It's been encouraging to see the enthusiasm and efforts of family members - many of whom are actively selling products in the neighbourhood and local market. We are expecting to see an increase in the profits during festival season and as we ramp up our efforts to market the products," said Suresh.

"We have commenced training for a second batch of 18 students in August and there is great excitement among students for learning a skill that will help them gain confidence and financial independence." Mr Thakur said.