In January 2024, 40 women sat down in a small community centre in Dehradun for the first session of Yashit Foundation's computer literacy programme. Six weeks later, all 40 completed the course — the first batch of 2024 in what has become one of our most impactful programmes.
Who Were These Women?
The batch included women aged between 22 and 48. Most had completed secondary school but had never touched a computer. Several were homemakers. A few were daily wage workers. What united them was a desire to be more employable — and more independent.
"I used to watch my daughter use a computer and feel ashamed that I couldn't. Now I can type faster than her." — Rekha, 44, housewife turned data entry operator
What the Programme Covers
- Basic computer operations and Windows navigation
- Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
- Internet use, email, and Google tools
- Basic digital safety and password management
- Introduction to government e-services (Aadhaar, PAN, DigiLocker)
Where Are They Now?
Three months after completing the programme, we followed up with all 40 women. 24 of them (60%) had found new employment or had expanded their existing work using their digital skills. Six had started freelancing in data entry. Two had enrolled in advanced Excel courses online.
Rekha, 44, is now working full-time as a data entry operator at a local textile exporter. She earns ₹9,000 per month — her first independent income in 18 years.
The Next Batch
Our April 2024 batch is currently underway with 45 women enrolled. We're also piloting a mobile-first module for women who only have smartphone access. Sponsor a woman's training.