October 10th marks the International Day of the Girl Child, a day dedicated to highlighting the unique challenges faced by girls across the world, and the importance of their empowerment. One of the most powerful tools in helping girls realize their potential is skills development. By equipping adolescent girls with practical, marketable skills, we can transform not only their individual lives but also entire communities.
Skills training programs designed specifically for young girls can pave the way for economic independence, improved confidence, and the breaking down of gender barriers. Two experts in the field of adolescent empowerment, Dhirendra Pratap Singh, Co-founder & CEO, Milaan Foundation, and Ravichandran V, Chairperson & Trustee, eVidyaloka Trust share their insights on how skills training can help turn the dreams of young girls into reality.
Empowering Girls Through 21st-Century Skills
As the CEO of Milaan Foundation, an organization dedicated to empowering adolescent girls through education and sustainable development, Singh emphasizes the importance of integrating 21st-century skill development and economic inclusion into the lives of young women. According to him, this isn’t just the responsibility of governments, but of businesses, nonprofits, and philanthropic foundations as well.
“It is essential that 21st-century skill development and economic inclusion for girls become a priority not only for governments but also for businesses, nonprofits, and philanthropic foundations,” says Singh. Over the last decade, many Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives have taken steps to provide young girls and women with opportunities in STEM, vocational training, and scholarships for higher education in fields like engineering and business management.
The impact of these initiatives is already visible. Women are increasingly present in mid-level management positions, boardrooms, and are even founding billion-dollar companies. By promoting women in STEM and entrepreneurship, we not only provide economic opportunities but also cultivate role models. Singh highlights that “many women are now becoming role models, investors, and mentors, empowering the next generation in their workplaces, academic institutions, and communities.”
Building a Gender-Equitable Workforce
While progress has been made, much more needs to be done to ensure that every girl has the opportunity to benefit from skills development. Ravichandran V, stresses that as India moves towards becoming a “Viksith Bharat” (Developed India), inclusivity will play a crucial role.
“As we move towards a Viksith Bharat, the need for inclusivity becomes increasingly critical,” states Ravichandran. He advocates for a future where opportunities are accessible to all and where employability is not just based on academic qualifications, but also on a combination of knowledge, practical skills, values, and a positive attitude.
“A focused and comprehensive skills development program for adolescent girls is essential to create a well-balanced and gender-equitable workforce,” adds Ravichandran. By equipping young women with tools such as vocational skills, technical training, and leadership capabilities, these programs not only help girls build careers but also contribute to creating a gender-balanced workforce. Such a workforce brings diverse perspectives, drives innovation, and fosters inclusive growth.
Ravichandran believes that “a gender-balanced workforce brings diverse perspectives, drives innovation, and fosters inclusive growth, laying the foundation for a truly developed and progressive India.” Initiatives aimed at bridging the gender gap are essential to ensuring that every girl, regardless of her background, has the opportunity to thrive in a rapidly growing economy.
The Road Ahead: Skills for the Future
As both Singh and Ravichandran agree, the future for adolescent girls lies in their access to skills development programs that prepare them for the workforce. These programs open doors, allowing millions of girls to realize their dreams and secure a better future for themselves and their communities. The transformation from dreams to reality is not only possible, but it is within reach when the right tools and resources are provided.
By investing in the education and skills of young girls, we are creating a brighter, more inclusive future for all. Whether through STEM initiatives, vocational training, or leadership programs, the impact of skills development on adolescent girls is undeniable. And as more girls gain access to these opportunities, we can expect a ripple effect that benefits societies on a much larger scale, creating a more equitable and prosperous world for future generations.
On this International Day of the Girl Child, let us renew our commitment to ensuring that every girl has the chance to turn her dreams into reality, by providing her with the skills and opportunities she deserves.
