By BIS Correspondent for BIS Mumbai

Kawant, September 27, 2026: In a significant step towards promoting skill development and economic empowerment among rural and tribal youth, the Rotary Club of Baroda Jawaharnagar inaugurated a Rotary Skill Centre at DISHA, Don Bosco Kawant, on September 27. The initiative was undertaken as part of the club’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations, with the aim of equipping educated but unemployed young men and women from tribal and economically disadvantaged communities with practical skills and opportunities for a more secure livelihood.

The inauguration programme was attended by Rotary Club of Baroda Jawaharnagar President Girish Dhar, Secretary Vivek Duggal, Kirit Dholakia, Manoj Adalja, Umed Fifadra, Jagdish Thakkar, Chandresh Makhija and other office-bearers, along with Major Donor Anitaben Jandiyal.

The Rotary Skill Centre was inaugurated by Rotarian Anitaben Jandiyal, who made a substantial contribution in memory of her mother, Kaushalyaben Bansal. Her generous support has helped create a dedicated space where young people can acquire skills that can strengthen their confidence, employability and economic independence.

Along with the Skill Centre, a Rotary Van and a Hygiene and Restroom Facility Block were also inaugurated during the programme. These facilities are expected to strengthen the learning environment and provide better infrastructure for young people participating in training and educational activities at Don Bosco Kawant.

A special feature of the programme was the experience-sharing session by participants of the BRIDGE Course, who shared their personal experiences and reflections in Gujarati, Hindi and English. Their testimonies highlighted how skill-based learning and exposure to new opportunities can contribute to personal growth and greater confidence among rural youth.

Addressing the gathering, Rector of Don Bosco Kawant, Fr Dr Mayank Parmar, and Rotary Club President Girish Dhar shared their thoughts on the importance of education, skill development and collective efforts for the social and economic advancement of tribal communities. Certificates were also presented to the 10th batch of BRIDGE Course trainees in recognition of their participation and completion of the training.

The programme also provided an opportunity to introduce the work and activities of DISHA, Don Bosco Kawant, particularly its efforts in education, youth development and community empowerment. The introduction to DISHA and the anchoring of the programme were carried out by Hasmukh Christian, Programme Officer, Don Bosco Kawant.

The formal programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Rotarian Jagdish Thakkar, who expressed appreciation to all those who contributed to the establishment of the Skill Centre and the successful organisation of the event. The programme concluded with the National Anthem.

The inauguration of the Rotary Skill Centre marks a collaborative effort between the Rotary Club of Baroda Jawaharnagar and Don Bosco Kawant to create meaningful opportunities for tribal youth through skills, education and pathways towards sustainable livelihoods.