Cobblers & Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University (YCMOU)

Abstract

Open & Distance Education System plays a major role in supporting and empowering the weaker sections of Indian Society. Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University (YCMOU) is a mega University from Western India having the vision ‘to reach to the unreached’. Cobblers learn professional skills from their ancestors/family members through informal way since childhood. Most of them are illiterates or semiliterate. They are not able to earn enough and fulfill basic needs, although working for 10-12 hours on the roadside. There was no provision of formal professional training. YCMOU undertook a research project to identify the basic needs of cobblers and the essential structure of the programme to fulfill these needs. Need analysis approach was preferred for this project through gathering feedback from Cobblers, Government Officers & Concerns Social Workers. // University developed two types of programs for the cobblers as 1. Five days Skill based training program for informally skilled cobblers 2. Six months training program for the entrants. // Multimedia package was developed to train the cobblers. The pilot testing of the five days Program was undertaken. All the participant appreciated these efforts of the University. They also learnt from each other. Specialized skilled participants also shared their skills in the program. On the basis of the Pilot testing the presenter received feedback that these people required more visuals in print material, detailed videos demonstrating step wise action and specific face to face training sessions. State Government of Maharashtra supports these cobblers through the loan facility. YCMOU and Govt jointly implemented these programs and certified individuals. Such initiatives must be promoted for skills development of various skill based professional. // Paper ID: 187