Tata Steel Foundation’s Skill Initiative Transforms Lives In Odisha’s Joda Region

Bhubaneswar: Tata Steel Foundation (TSF) has been actively fostering transformation and inclusive growth in the mining-rich Joda region. Here is the story of 18-year-old Tulasi Lohar’s life-changing experience. She belongs to Guali village in Joda block.

Tulasi, one of six siblings in a mining family, aspired to higher education and the prospect of a stable career. The family faced financial challenges, and skill education opportunities were scarce in their village, Guali. Tulasi convinced her father to enroll her in +2 Arts at Joda Women’s College. When the Tata Steel Foundation (TSF) and NIIT launched a nearby skill development centre, Tulasi, recommended by the NIIT team, enrolled in English foundation and Basic IT courses. She mastered computer skills, MS Office, internet usage, data entry, bill payments, online ordering, and job interview preparation. She also gained confidence in English communication.

Later, she secured the position of a Gramma Panchayat Community Member (GPCM) at the Aspire Company, an NGO partner of TSF, inspiring many others like her to follow the path of empowerment.