How vocational training has helped the poor
How do you improve your life when all doors for a better tomorrow are shut? Many of the poor stuck in a vicious cycle of unemployment and lack of a sustainable income start venturing toward stealing, addiction, and terrorism. For the poorest of the poor, getting assistance of any kind is the only way to come out of poverty and toward a better life. Many governments and nonprofits understand this and have come forward to offer vocational training for the disadvantaged.
What kind of vocational training can be offered to the poor?
Vocational training helps the poor earn a respectable income, breeds entrepreneurship, and gives them a sense of self-respect. Many vocational training programs help people achieve this-
Computer training program
In many undeveloped regions of the world, technology has yet to help communities improve their lives. With the help of basic computer literacy programs, the poor can qualify for entry-level jobs that provide a decent, sustainable income.
Tailoring
Clothing will never go out of demand. There are so many opportunities for tailors to make mass-market or custom clothing items. Considering this, tailoring is a profession that anyone could do with the right training and practical exposure. For instance, Chesed runs a sewing school for underprivileged Pakistani girls where they are taught how to use a sewing machine to sew various kinds of clothes and accessories. Learning to Sew has helped these girls become independent and they no longer need to depend on family for their daily expenses.
Automobile mechanic
Cars, trucks, bikes, and other vehicles always require some of the other repairs. This makes the mechanics’ role crucial. Vocational training for auto mechanics can help the poor get a job or set up a shop in their locality.
Driving
There are always a lot of opportunities to become a driver. A simple, short-duration course to train drivers and get them driving licences could help them earn a living working as a driver for someone.
Construction-based jobs
Construction jobs pay well and help people earn a respectable income. Of course, there’s a gamut of opportunities here, some require special skills while others are unskilled. Many governments and nonprofits have for years trained the poor to work in the construction sector.
Why vocational training is the only way to uplift the poor
Though there are many ways to help the poor, what really helps them is vocational training. As the saying goes, it’s better to teach how to fish than give the fish. Though giving the poor handouts and aid would get you their blessings, the poor would remember you forever when you teach them a skill that they can use to make a living.
Many missions across the world are helping the poor help themselves. They can continue this only with the help of continuous support in the form of donations. If you would like to contribute to a world relief organisation, do donate to Chesed and make this world a better place.
