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Author: Smile Editorial Team

Categories
Women Empowerment

Womenpreneurs Could Lead India’s Growth Story

Womenpreneurs Could Lead India’s Growth Story
Womenpreneurs Could Lead India’s Growth Story

Empowering women is crucial globally, particularly in developing nations with entrenched gender disparities. India has made strides through initiatives like StartUp India, Nai Roshni, Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram, and Mahila Samriddhi Yojna, encouraging women’s holistic development. Notably, India has seen a rise in women entrepreneurs, comprising 14% of the sector and over 20% of MSMEs. Figures like Falguni Nayar, Kiran Mazumdar, and Gazal Alagh epitomise this trend, while inspiring many others.

Yet, many Indian women still struggle due to limited socio-economic opportunities. Global reports project over 340 million women (8% of the female population) living in poverty, with one in four facing severe food insecurity. Education and financial literacy gaps exacerbate this. The NFHS-5 report, reveals women aged 15-49 are 13% less likely to be educated than men, with only 41% completing ten years of schooling compared to 50.2% of men.

This education disparity perpetuates limited job opportunities for women, hindering their financial security. Closing this gap is vital for inclusive growth and addressing the persistent challenges faced by women in India.

Why more women in business is good?

Women’s empowerment is both morally imperative and strategically vital for a nation’s prosperity. In India, women drive 50% of the startup ecosystem, with higher returns on equity for women-led companies. 

Projected data suggests a potential USD 0.7 trillion GDP boost by 2025, if 68 million more women join the workforce. Aligned with UNDP’s Sustainable Goal 5, Smile Foundation’s Swabhiman programme empowers women in urban slums and rural areas. 

Launched in 2005, the Swabhiman programme aims to reach out to the marginalised and socially excluded women, providing them access to quality healthcare interventions, vocational skill development and entrepreneurship support.

Under the guidance of industry experts and the Swabhiman team, women are trained to understand and apply the basics of business and financial management, marketing and communication. They are familiarised with ways ad opportunities to scale up and expand their small scale endeavours, to maximise profit and grow as independent, successful entrepreneurs. 

More women in business

To create a gender-equal society, the programme has tailored specific paradigms for increasing women in business such as

  • Entrepreneurship Training is provided to women to equip them with technical and entrepreneurial capacity
  • Women trainees are provided with knowledge of banking, investment and financial security to enable them to make informed decisions
  • Women are made aware of and enrolled in relevant Govt schemes to enhance their growth opportunities
  • Community members, particularly men, are sensitised to create a supportive environment for women, with the ultimate aim of building sustainable communities
  • Women are supported to set up Model Micro Enterprises

The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) introduced by the Government of India in 2018, has been an inspiration for the Swabhiman programme. The WEP emphasises equipping women with programmes for a) incubation and acceleration b) entrepreneurship skills and mentorship c) marketing assistance d) funding and financial assistance e) compliance and tax assistance f) community and networking.

Shouldering the government’s initiative, the Swabhiman Programme has made a strong footing in several parts of the country. With over 1,50,000 women and young girls as beneficiaries and 1000+ women and adolescent girls as changemakers, the programme has created a positive wave of change at the grassroots level.

Furthermore, over 54 women-led businesses and small entrepreneurs have been initiated, while several women have been equipped with knowledge and skills that help them make sound financial decisions, ensuring a safer and stable future for themselves and their families. 

Pramila stitching her dreams

One such budding women entrepreneur is Pramila. Pramila’s (40) life changed drastically when her husband had a serious accident, pushing her into the role of sole provider. Despite trying cloth stitching, she struggled, until she came across Smile Foundation’s Swabhiman Programme, which helps women set up their low-scale businesses and manage their operations.

After getting enrolled in Swabhiman, she was suggested by the trainers of the programme to rent out a shop and start her business. She was also provided with two machines for interlock and pico work. Furthermore, she was given intensive training in business management and financial awareness, enabling her to make well-informed decisions for her business. 

Today, she has been associated with Smile Foundation for a year and her business is thriving. She has been able to hire another person to manage the business while empowering both her sons to pursue higher education.

She is glad that she got to know about Swabhiman which has truly helped her and her family to live better and dream bigger and brighter.

Like Geraldine Ferraro said, “Some leaders are born women”, the Swabhiman Programme firmly believes that by empowering women with quality education and equal economic opportunities, we are creating a generation that shall see women as prominent decision-makers. 

The growing number of women entrepreneurs in India is a silver lining and this trend should be supported collectively by all stakeholders. A joint effort has to be made to curb discriminatory practices against women based on gender, educational qualificatio and experience that limit them in accessing economic opportunities and support. 

The Swabhiman Programme envisions pushing the women’s entrepreneurial landscape in an upward trajectory that will finally enable them to break the ceiling and create a newer horizon of success for themselves.

Categories
Education

Transforming Education through Basics: A case for prioritising FLN

Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) are the cornerstones of effective education, serving as the bedrock upon which all further learning is built. Without a strong grasp of these basic skills, students struggle to keep up, leading to flat learning curves and, in many cases, dropping out of school.

As noted by renowned Indian American mathematician Manjul Bhargava, “Once students fall behind on foundational skills, they tend to maintain flat learning curves for years, perpetually unable to catch up.” This learning crisis is particularly acute in countries like India, where despite high enrollment rates, a significant proportion of students lack basic literacy and numeracy skills.

Over the years, FLN has been recognised as a critical educational goal globally. Various organisations and policies have attempted to define and standardise FLN, focusing on skills such as letter and word recognition, reading comprehension, writing and basic mathematical operations. In India, the National Education Policy 2020 and the NIPUN Bharat mission have provided a comprehensive framework for FLN, emphasising the importance of ensuring that all children acquire these essential skills by the end of Grade 3.

NEP 2020 and NIPUN Bharat: A Framework for Foundational Literacy and Numeracy

The NEP 2020 places a strong emphasis on foundational learning, acknowledging it as a prerequisite for achieving educational equity and quality. The policy sets an ambitious target of achieving universal foundational literacy and numeracy in primary school by 2025. To this end, NIPUN Bharat has been launched, aligning with NEP guidelines to focus on the first four foundational years, which include one year of preschool education followed by formal schooling up to Grade 3.

NIPUN Bharat aims to ensure that every child in India attains the desired learning competencies in reading, writing and arithmetic, aligning with global best practices. This initiative recognises that early intervention is key to preventing learning deficits that can widen as students progress through school. By focusing on FLN, India aims to create a strong foundation for higher-order learning, social responsibility and improved health outcomes, while also reducing dropout rates and remediation costs.

The Current Status of FLN in India

Despite substantial efforts, FLN outcomes in India remain a cause for concern. The ASER reports, which assess learning levels in rural India, consistently reveal that a large proportion of children in primary school lack basic literacy and numeracy skills. According to ASER 2022, only 20.5% of Grade 3 learners can read a Grade 2 level text, and just 25.9% can perform basic subtraction. These figures highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions to improve foundational skills.

ASER data also underscores the impact of socioeconomic factors on learning outcomes. Children from disadvantaged backgrounds are disproportionately affected, often entering school with fewer foundational skills and facing greater challenges in catching up. For many children, the home environment does not support literacy and numeracy development, either due to a lack of resources or because parents themselves may not be literate. This exacerbates educational inequality and underscores the need for policies that provide additional support to these students.

High dropout rates, especially among girls and marginalised communities, further add to the challenge. Children who drop out are often those who have not acquired adequate FLN skills, which in turn limits their ability to re-enter the educational system. In a country with over 1,600 languages and dialects, teaching in a language that children understand presents another complexity. The lack of mother-tongue instruction in early grades can impede the acquisition of literacy skills.

Over the years though, India has made significant progress in creating systems and initiatives aimed at improving FLN outcomes. Programs like the Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS), the Right to Education Act, the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, and the NEP 2020 have laid the groundwork for a more equitable and effective education system. However, achieving universal FLN by 2025 will require a concerted effort across all levels of government and society.

Strategies for Enhancing Foundational Literacy and Numeracy

To overcome these challenges and achieve the ambitious goals set by NEP 2020 and NIPUN Bharat, several strategies need to be implemented:

  1. Investing in Teacher Training: Teachers are at the forefront of delivering FLN outcomes. Providing them with the necessary training and resources to use assessments effectively and adapt their teaching strategies based on assessment data is crucial.
  2. Integrating Technology in Education: Leveraging digital tools can enhance the reach and effectiveness of FLN programmes. Technology can facilitate personalised learning, offer access to quality educational content and support continuous assessment and feedback mechanisms.
  3. Focus on Competency-based Assessments: Moving beyond traditional rote-based assessments, there is a need to implement competency-based assessments that measure students’ understanding and application of skills.
  4. Strengthening Governance and Accountability: Ensuring that educational policies are effectively implemented at the grassroots level requires robust governance frameworks and clear accountability mechanisms.
  5. Sustained Investment in FLN: Achieving universal FLN requires dedicated funding and resources. This includes investments in early childhood education, teacher training, assessment tools and educational infrastructure.

Finding Solutions: Smile Foundation’s Efforts

Smile Foundation, through its flagship programme Mission Education, has been working for over two decades to enhance FLN among children from underserved communities across India. Recognising the barriers to FLN, Smile Foundation has implemented a multi-faceted approach that complements government efforts and helps bridge gaps in the educational system.

The programme provides specialised training for teachers on effective FLN strategies, ensuring that they are equipped with the skills and knowledge to deliver quality education. This includes training on using age-appropriate learning materials, managing multi-lingual classrooms and incorporating activity-based learning methods.

Leveraging technology, Mission Education has introduced digital learning tools such as tablets and smart classes that provide interactive and engaging learning experiences. These tools are particularly effective in bridging learning gaps in core subjects like Mathematics, Science and English. 

Continuous monitoring and evaluation of students’ progress is a key component of our approach. The use of data analytics helps in tracking learning outcomes and identifying areas that require additional focus, ensuring that interventions are tailored to meet the specific needs of each child. For children who are struggling, remedial classes focusing on literacy, numeracy and life skills are conducted to provide personalised support and help the children catch up with their peers.

Further, to create a supportive environment for children’s education, the programme engages parents and communities through regular workshops and awareness campaigns. These initiatives aim to emphasise the importance of education and encourage parents to actively participate in their children’s learning journey.

Higher Education and Beyond

Foundational Literacy and Numeracy are essential for creating a strong educational foundation, enabling students to succeed in higher education and beyond. The NEP 2020 and NIPUN Bharat provide a robust framework for achieving FLN, but challenges remain in terms of assessment, governance and resource allocation. By addressing these challenges and focusing on effective strategies, India can ensure that all children acquire the foundational skills needed to thrive in the 21st century.

Categories
Health

Reducing vulnerability, improving access of specialised healthcare

Reducing vulnerability, improving access of specialised healthcare
Reducing vulnerability, improving access of specialised healthcare

In a country as diverse and populous as India, the provision of healthcare is a critical issue that intersects with social, economic, and cultural factors. While progress has been made in expanding primary healthcare access, there is a significant gap when it comes to specialised healthcare services. The prevailing healthcare approach for many Indians has been one of addressing needs only as they arise. Factors such as cost, travel logistics and the impact on work hours often deter individuals from seeking specialist opinions when necessary.

This challenge is particularly evident in rural areas where specialists are scarce. Many primary health centers in India lack specialised doctors, pushing individuals from marginalised communities to travel long distances to access these critical services. This disparity highlights the pressing need for specialised healthcare initiatives tailored to the unique needs of these populations.

In most medical situations, consulting a specialist is not a luxury but a necessity. Effective specialist care is crucial when accessed promptly and from the appropriate professional. Primary healthcare serves as both the starting point and the destination of the healthcare journey within society, with specialist care playing a pivotal role in this pathway. Together, these components uphold the health status of the community.

Challenges for vulnerable communities

Limited Access to Specialised Doctors: Most primary health centers are staffed primarily by general physicians and lack specialised practitioners like physiotherapists, dentists and orthopedic surgeons. As per the Bharat Health Index Survey 2023, “only 15 per cent of respondents confirmed having a doctor’s clinic or healthcare facility within a five kilometer radius. In terms of medical practitioners available, while 25 per cent had access to general physicians in their area, 92 percent lacked specialised doctors, such as cardiologists, gynaecologists or paediatricians, impacting medical care.”

Geographical Challenges: Marginalised communities, especially those in remote rural areas and urban slums, often lack transportation infrastructure to reach government hospitals where specialised services are available. As per the Bharat Health Index survey, for specialised treatment such as cancer, neurological or blood disorders, “90 per cent needed to travel to a different location for treatment.” 

Economic Constraints: The cost associated with traveling to distant hospitals and paying for specialised consultations and treatments is prohibitive for many individuals from low-income backgrounds.

Quality of Care: Even when individuals manage to access specialised services, the quality of care can vary widely, impacting health outcomes and exacerbating disparities.

Need for Specialised Healthcare Initiatives

To address these disparities, specialised healthcare initiatives are urgently needed. These initiatives should focus on:

Community-based Services: Establishing community-level healthcare centers staffed with specialised practitioners can bring critical services closer to where they are needed most. These centers can offer physiotherapy, dental care, ophthalmology and other specialised services tailored to local needs.

Capacity Building: Investing in training healthcare professionals from within marginalised communities to become specialised practitioners can help bridge the gap. This approach empowers communities and ensures culturally sensitive care.

Mobile Clinics: Implementing mobile healthcare units equipped with specialized equipment and staffed by trained professionals can reach remote areas and provide essential services directly to those who need them. 

Telehealth: By leveraging telehealth services, the process of accessing specialised medical opinions becomes more convenient, encouraging timelier interventions that can ultimately enhance health outcomes while reducing costs. Utilising analytics on aggregated data will enable population-wide analyses, correlating clinician advice with health results. Over time, this data aggregation can facilitate the standardisation of clinical protocols and the enhancement of care quality.

Nevertheless, when crafting solutions to bridge healthcare disparities between rural and urban India and address the scarcity of specialist care in rural areas, it is imperative to acknowledge that digitising healthcare necessitates a comprehensive transformation in the knowledge, skills and awareness of healthcare providers, alongside a shift in patients’ perceptions and expectations.

Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborations between government agencies, non-profit organisations and private healthcare providers can facilitate the delivery of specialised services to underserved populations.

Mobile Dental Healthcare: A Case Study

It is noteworthy that while India has the second highest number of dentists in the world (a dentist to population ratio better than the WHO recommendation), just about three percent of all the dentists are employed in government service (as per the National Health Profile 2019), which is the primary care provider for a large section of the country’s population, particularly the underserved communities. 

Smile Foundation, with support from, and in partnership with a leading oral health industry expert, is operating Dental Mobile Health Units, to take oral healthcare services to the underserved communities in semi-urban and rural areas of the country. This is one innovative way of taking specialised care right at the doorsteps of the people. Similar collaborative initiatives can help make specialised healthcare more accessible in hard to reach areas.   

In conclusion, addressing the healthcare needs of vulnerable and economically marginalised communities in India demands a holistic approach that goes beyond conventional healthcare delivery models. By investing in tailored interventions and encouraging community participation, we can move towards a more inclusive and healthier society where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

Categories
Health

Primary Healthcare Strengthening Community Mental Health

Primary Healthcare Strengthening Community Mental Health

The era of primary healthcare solely focused on physical health is long gone. Today, it is universally acknowledged that health encompasses both physical and mental aspects. To substantiate this, one can look at how the World Health Organization (WHO) defines health: “Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” Yet, to think of mental health in the realm of primary health care is still a distant dream for many. 

Primary healthcare aims to deliver high-quality, comprehensive care for people throughout their lives. As outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO), it involves three main elements: integrating health services to address diverse health needs, tackling the broader determinants of health through coordinated policy and action, and empowering individuals, families and communities to take control of their health.

The Alma Ata Declaration established primary health care as crucial for achieving health for all people. In fact, as an extension of the same, in recent years, there has been growing recognition of the critical role that primary healthcare plays in strengthening community mental health. Since it is at the foundational level of a country’s healthcare system, primary healthcare is uniquely positioned to address mental health issues early, integrate mental healthcare with general health services, and foster a supportive environment for mental well-being.

Several studies suggest that by leveraging the strengths of primary health care, communities can achieve more comprehensive, accessible, and equitable mental health support.

Integration of mental health into primary healthcare

An article in the Mental Health in Family Medicine journal recommends that one of the most significant ways primary healthcare can strengthen community mental health is by integrating mental health services into general healthcare settings. Traditionally, mental health care has been siloed, with specialised services separate from primary health care. Still, this fragmentation often leads to gaps in care and stigma, eventually discouraging individuals from seeking help.

Integrating mental health services into primary healthcare settings—such as family practices, community health centres and clinics—ensures that mental health is addressed as part of routine care. This integration can then allow for early detection and treatment of mental health issues. Mental health conditions frequently present as physical symptoms or occur alongside other physical health issues.

For example, individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes or hypertension may also experience depression or anxiety. Integrating mental health care into primary healthcare is crucial for providing comprehensive and effective treatment. By integrating mental health into primary healthcare, we aim to enhance access to care and health outcomes. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends several key strategies to achieve this: securing a formal commitment from the highest levels of government, incorporating mental health training into medical and paramedical curricula, reinforcing this training through on-the-job education and ensuring adequate supervision of primary care staff to support sustainable integration.

What is the other aspect?

Another essential aspect of strengthening primary healthcare to improve access to mental health services is addressing the stigma associated with mental health, which is particularly prevalent in rural areas. Integrating mental health services into primary care can help normalise conversations about mental health.

Incorporating mental health care into regular health check-ups becomes a standard part of overall well-being. Primary healthcare settings are often more accessible than specialised mental health facilities. Therefore, by providing mental health services within these familiar and accessible primary care environments, barriers such as transportation, cost and long wait times can be significantly reduced, improving overall access to care.

Community support to advance mental health policies

An approach to effect this is by promoting community-based approaches and support networks. This usually involves working with local organisations, schools, workplaces and community leaders to create supportive environments that promote mental well-being and provide resources for needy individuals.

A great example of how primary healthcare can strengthen community mental health is  Bhutan’s Mental Health Integration Program, which started in July 1997. While mental health issues were traditionally inaccessible to many people, the programme attempts to integrate mental health services into the primary healthcare system. This was done through a three-part process. Training and capacity building of  primary health care providers for mental health diagnosis and treatment through which they can identify common mental health disorders and understand how to provide essential mental health interventions. They then leveraged community-based approaches including building local health centers, allowing individuals to access mental health care alongside other health services and running awareness campaigns to educate the public about mental health and encourage individuals to seek help. Lastly, regular supervision and support from mental health specialists was enforced to ensure they were delivering effective and appropriate care. 

In turn, the programme enhanced access to care, improved health outcomes and reduced stigma, proving that mental health is addressed as part of overall health care, leading to more comprehensive and practical support for community mental health. A similar approach was implemented in Sehore, Madhya Pradesh, where the government adopted the World Health Organization’s Mental Health Gap Action Plan. This plan advocated for a collaborative care model to effectively address the challenges faced in implementing mental health services.

Better Community, Better Nation

In conclusion, strengthening community mental health through primary healthcare is certainly a multifaceted approach that includes integrating mental health services into general care settings, enhancing access, reducing stigma and building provider capacity, among other measures. By leveraging the strengths of primary healthcare– an area where Smile Foundation works extensively in, countries can achieve a more holistic and accessible mental health support system, fostering healthier, more resilient communities. 

Categories
Health

Surge in student suicides in India puts focus on mental health challenges 

Surge in student suicides in India puts focus on mental health challenges 
Surge in student suicides in India puts focus on mental health challenges 

While overall suicide numbers increased by 2% annually, student suicides cases surged by 4%, despite a likely “under reporting” of student suicide cases, says a report ‘Student suicides: An epidemic sweeping India’. Based on the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, the report was launched at the Annual IC3 Conference and Expo 2024, which was held recently. Data compiled by the NCRB was based on police-recorded FIRs.

India’s student suicides surpasses population growth rate 

Over the past two decades, student suicides have grown at an annual rate of 4%, double the national average. In 2022, male students constituted 53% of the total student suicides. Between 2021 and 2022, male student suicides decreased by 6% while female student suicides increased by 7%. However, accurate data collection, recording and reporting for transgender students are necessary, as their circumstances are not well represented in the current data.

According to the report, the incidence of student suicides continues to surpass both population growth rates and overall suicide trends. Over the last decade, while the population of 0 to 24-year-olds reduced from 582 million to 581 million, the number of student suicides increased from 6,654 to 13,044.

Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Madhya Pradesh top the list

The states with the highest number of student suicides are Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Madhya Pradesh. Together, they account for one-third of the national total.

Although the 2017 Mental Healthcare Act decriminalises suicide attempts for individuals with mental illness, the legacy of criminalisation continues to impact reporting practices, said the report.

Factors that contribute to increased risk of suicide

Why are so many students dying by suicide? There are many known factors, says psychiatrist Dr M Suresh Kumar. Top of the list is academic pressure.

Stress on academic excellence

“Children are told within the school system and the family ecosystem that if they don’t do well in exams their whole life is doomed. And that, in an extremely competitive world, the only way to survive is to get high marks,” he says. “Failure is not acceptable.”

Psychologist and counsellor Mini Rao says that parents feel that when they have given their children everything they want, why aren’t they fulfilling parental expectations. “Children face a lot of guilt when they can’t live up to the parents’ expectations,” she says, adding that educational institutions exert pressure on students as they are focussed on ensuring that the pass percentage of the school is high.

There has also been a rise in suicides among students vying for entry into reputed engineering institutes by clearing the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) or into medical colleges through the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET).

Peer pressure

“Students who don’t do well academically are ridiculed and ostracised by other people. Sometimes, the best students are put in one group, and no one cares about the other students who are struggling,” says Dr Suresh.

Financial pressure

Education is big business, with schools and colleges charging exorbitant fees. “It is expensive to educate a child – you need to pay for school, tuition and coaching classes to crack competitive exams, says Dr Suresh.  “Parents see the money they spend as an investment in the child’s future, so there is pressure to perform well.”

Relationship issues

Students dying by suicide is not always related to academics and economics, says Dr Suresh Kumar. “Adolescent children, boys or girls, now give a lot of importance to romantic relationships. And many attempt suicide when a breakup happens.”

Hereditary factors

“Depression is hereditary and, when left untreated, can lead to suicide,” says Dr Mini Rao. “So, if a child is consistently showing lack of concentration, or cries for no reason etc then parents and/or teachers need to be vigilant and see they get help from a mental health professional.”

Dr Suresh says that a small proportion of younger people can have a history of psychiatric disorder. “Conditions such as anxiety and depression are treatable if identified early,” he says.

Substance abuse and addiction to gadgets, internet

Parents are more indulgent now and children have access to mobile phones and the internet early, says Dr Mini Rao. “Recently, a mother reached out to me for help. Her child, a class 6 student, had become addicted to his cell phone. When she grabbed the phone and hid it, he started cutting his wrists and threatened to end his life,” she says.

Dr Suresh says that substance use and internet addiction takes children away from the real world, transporting them to a world of fantasy. “Facing reality becomes difficult, they can’t accept failure,” he says, adding that people with addictions are more prone to attempting suicide.

 “It also interferes with sleep, which is important for mental health,” he says, adding that sleep disturbance is a predictor of poor mental health.

How do we address the situation and decrease student suicides?

Having help at hand

Having counsellors at schools and colleges is a start so that children can reach out to them. They can also be trained to spot signs of distress in students.

Building resilience

“Nobody talks about the white elephant in the room. What makes some people more likely to attempt suicide?  What makes people vulnerable? We are not rearing children to develop resilience. It’s completely missing in school ecosystems that focus heavily on academics,” says Dr Suresh Kumar. “Children need to develop the ability to cope with adversity.”

Conducting any intervention programme at class 12 is too late, he feels. “If you want to intervene in schools, you have to do it at the forgotten ‘middle age’. People focus on the zero to 12 age group and then the 16-18 age group but between 12 and 15 is a critical time, as that’s when children are trying to learn abstract concepts such as values, character, reward, sexuality, risk taking, knowing right from wrong, etc,” he says. “They need to know the value of gratitude, kindness and hope as a combination of it will help them deal with past, present and future challenges.”

Addressing wellbeing of teachers

Unstable, unhappy teachers can’t provide unconditional support to children, says Dr Suresh Kumar. “The wellbeing of teachers is important as they can then handle children better.”

Creating safe spaces

Safe spaces where students can express their feelings will also help. “In some corporation schools in Chennai, we are identifying some parents, teachers and senior students and equipping them with empathetic listening skills, so that they can help students,” says Dr Suresh.

NGOs to the rescue

Organisations such as ours are also trying to help. Our education interventions are focused on helping children from difficult circumstances to have access to equal opportunities for school completion and equitable learning outcomes. 

Our programmes provide an exciting and fun learning environment as it enables children to understand and retain concepts easily. So, our STEM labs have DIY activity kits for activity-based learning and STEM DIY kits.

Teacher training sessions are held to update and upgrade the teaching learning techniques and methodologies in teachers and help classrooms become more interactive, vibrant and fun. 

Categories
Women Empowerment

Without community change agents, women empowerment cannot happen

Without community change agents, women empowerment cannot happen
Without community change agents, women empowerment cannot happen

In 2010, while addressing the UN Commission on the Status of Women, the then secretary, Hillary Clinton, said, “The status of the world’s women is not only a matter of morality and justice. It is also a political, economic, and social imperative. Put simply, the world cannot make lasting progress if women and girls in the 21st century are denied their rights and left behind.”

It’s been over a decade since then, and the discussion around the subject has only gained more significance. By 2030, the United Nations aims to “achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls”. Millions of women and girls still lack rights, even in the face of growing awareness of gender inequity and efforts by several international organisations to highlight women as changemakers. Realising sustainable goals in every area of life requires the empowerment of women and recognising their rights is essential to realising unalienable human rights.

However, equal engagement from men, officials and advocates for change at the grassroots levels is necessary for women’s empowerment to seep into life’s many gaps. Power dynamics that prevent women from leading healthy and satisfying lives are present in all spheres of society, from the most intimate to the most visible. Policy and programme initiatives that will increase women’s access to stable employment and financial resources, among many other facets of life, are necessary to bring about change.

Change agents at community level

Women have historically been disproportionately impacted by socioeconomic conditions, poverty and limited access to high-quality healthcare and education worldwide. Despite these obstacles, women have made great progress in recent years, breaking down barriers in traditionally male-dominated sectors like science, technology, engineering and mathematics and holding more positions of leadership in corporations and politics than ever before.

However, without community change agents, advocating for women’s participation as changemakers and supporting their empowerment cannot be accomplished in a vacuum. Programmes for community development are essential for addressing societal issues that are deeply ingrained. The essential need to stop child marriage, domestic abuse, family breakdown, moral decline and dysfunctional societies is the basis of framing tactics that will raise awareness of gender parity and enhance women’s socioeconomic standing.

Community-based intervention elements including community development training, health education, business or entrepreneurial skills training, knowledge of women’s rights and primary education have a major beneficial influence on the SHG members and programmes. It is commonly known that community involvement with these initiatives has a large-scale impact. Research demonstrates that peer-led community activities have a favourable impact on empowerment and health. Additionally, training that provides group support is essential for empowering women and more especially, for enhancing their self-confidence.

What does data show?

Despite making up almost 50% of the global population, women are still underrepresented in positions of influence and authority across a wide range of societal domains, including politics, business and the media, according to the UN World Population Prospects, 2022. The World Economic Forum reports that there is still a sizable gender pay gap worldwide, with women making around 37% less than males in comparable professions. The analysis presents a bleak picture of the gender gap, estimating that it would take 134 years to establish full gender parity. This would mean that the 2030 SDG objective would be missed by five generations.

Ways to lead to women empowerment 

The first step must always begin with educating girls. Girls’ education can have a positive knock-on impact in nearby areas. Better economic prospects are available to girls who complete their schooling. Moreover, school groups are frequently the places where peer and social networks flourish. Girls who have greater peer networks are more motivated and involved in their studies, which promotes better community interactions.

To act as catalysts towards women’s empowerment, one important strategy is to support women’s financial mobility. Women should enter the workforce and become entrepreneurs who defy gender norms and prejudices. By doing so, they may encourage other women to follow in their footsteps and pursue their own business endeavours. SHGs and community volunteers can assist women in this endeavour. Greater gender equality may result from this, which would benefit not only women but also males and society at large.

Local officials should also strive to recognise and strengthen women’s leadership positions and involvement in political, civic, economic, social and cultural life and development, as well as to promote equality and respect for women and men.

Setting up Procedures

Governments and civil society organisations should set up procedures that accelerate women’s equal representation and participation in politics at all levels of public life and community. They should also facilitate women’s ability to express their needs and concerns and guarantee women’s full and equal participation in decision-making processes across all domains of life.

Through community interventions, they should act to eradicate attitudes and behaviours that oppress and discriminate against women and girls, as well as those that perpetuate gender inequality, through community initiatives.

It is impossible to advance the potential of girls and women if there are no change agents and awareness at the grassroots level. The required measures should be adopted in concert with one another to guarantee that women have access to appropriate, accessible and high-quality healthcare throughout their lives, with a focus on gender equality.

Swabhiman initiative to bring equality through change agents

In conclusion, women should take the lead in bringing about constructive and revolutionary changes that will benefit all members of society by being change agents in both their local communities and society at large. The Smile Foundation‘s Swabhiman initiative, which was started in 2005, provides economic, nutrition and health intervention programmes to women who are marginalised and socially ostracised. The larger objective is to empower women by creative community interventions, enacting long-lasting social change, establishing gender equality in society and actively including boys and men in the process of women’s empowerment. 

Categories
Skill Development

Creating long-value in reskilling

Creating long-value in reskilling
Creating long-value in reskilling

In the aftermath of the pandemic, the business landscape has evolved with several emerging trends. A 2020 survey by McKinsey & Company revealed that the pandemic significantly accelerated the adoption of digital technologies, and it was anticipated that these changes would persist. Four years on, this forecast has proven accurate. Digital technologies have been widely adopted across organisational and industrial levels, as well as among consumers.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other advanced technologies are transformative in this shift. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) projects that technology will reshape 1.1 billion jobs over the next decade due to AI and machine learning advancements. This transformation is expected to have an impact on human resources.

Business leaders face the challenge of addressing widening skill gaps. In the coming years, the gap between available workers and open positions is further expected to widen. The mismatch between the skills required for various roles and the knowledge employees currently possess could exacerbate these issues as employees may struggle to transition into roles critical for business operations. 

In turn, recruiting skilled talent from outside the organisation will likely become more costly than it is today, underscoring the crucial need for comprehensive reskilling programmes to stay competitive and relevant in this rapidly evolving environment. 

Navigating the future 

Reskilling refers to the process of equipping an employee with new skills to enhance their current job performance or to prepare them for a more advanced role. A 2023 study by the Digital Data Design Institute at Harvard’s Digital Reskilling Lab, in collaboration with the Boston Consulting Group’s Henderson Institute, underscores the urgent need in today’s business environment. Based on interviews with leaders from nearly 40 organisations worldwide, the study highlights that reskilling is no longer a matter of ‘what and why’ but ‘how’.

The study argues that reskilling has become a strategic imperative for contemporary businesses. Avoiding layoffs and fostering positive public relations is essential because factors like the ageing workforce increasingly constrain the labour market. Implementing effective reskilling programmes can give companies a competitive advantage by developing job-specific skills that are not readily available in the market, giving them a head start over their competitors.

Several companies have set notable examples in implementing impactful reskilling campaigns. For instance, Infosys has launched a flagship digital learning platform designed to equip individuals, communities and society with the skills necessary for success in the 21st century. This platform focuses on upskilling in areas such as digital technologies, emerging tech and essential life skills.

Similarly, ICICI Bank has been running an intensive reskilling programme to prepare graduates from diverse backgrounds for managerial positions. This initiative underscores the bank’s commitment to developing a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of today’s evolving business environment. 

Another trend to keep into account is the rise of green technology. Given the growing emphasis on sustainability and the shift towards greener practices, we are now witnessing the rise of a green-collar workforce. In response to this, reskilling becomes increasingly essential. As companies and governments focus on reducing carbon footprints, a rising demand for jobs centred around sustainability exists.

The share of green talent in the workforce rose by a median of 12.3% between 2022 and 2023, according to LinkedIn’s Global Green Skills Report 2023. This shift necessitates reskilling for those in industries like fossil fuels, who may need to transition to roles aligned with sustainability efforts. In this case, reskilling plays a critical role in helping workers adapt to these evolving job markets and seize emerging opportunities. 

Through collective effort and inputs

In reskilling processes, it is crucial to view employees as partners in the journey. The Harvard study underscores that reskilling demands substantial time and effort from employees. Consequently, organisations should aim to minimise the associated risks, costs, and burdens to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the process.

Adopting a people-centric approach is essential. Consider IBM’s reskilling model as a prime example. IBM launched the IBM Skills Academy to provide employees with advanced training in emerging technologies. By partnering with educational institutions and implementing an internal mobility system, IBM enables employees to transition into new roles within the company as they acquire new skills. This strategy has fostered a culture of continuous learning, giving IBM a competitive edge and creating a pipeline of strategically skilled employees.

Furthermore, the reskilling process demands considerable effort from management, extending beyond mere employee training. Successful reskilling requires fostering the right mindset and behaviours among employees and managers. Given the high costs involved, coalitions of companies might be more effective in addressing reskilling challenges than individual organisations. By collaborating on joint training initiatives, companies can mitigate some of the difficulties of reskilling. Partnerships with local colleges and training institutes further enhance these efforts, providing valuable resources and support.

In a nutshell, the importance of reskilling brings in several key benefits. It is essential for adapting to a rapidly changing environment, future-proofing careers against automation and AI, meeting shifting organisational needs, and enhancing long-term employability. As we navigate the Fourth Industrial Revolution, or Industry 4.0, where the boundaries between technology and business continue to blur, skilled employees are more critical than ever. They are the driving force behind client relationships, technology management and business growth. 

To maintain competition and relevance in the market, employees will increasingly have to engage in continuous skills training as individuals and organisations risk falling behind and becoming obsolete without sufficient learning opportunities.

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Smile

Teacher’s Day 2024: Changing Student-Teacher Relationship

Capability approach
Teacher's Day 2024: Changing Student-Teacher Relationship

Teacher’s Day in India, celebrated on September 5th, honours the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a distinguished teacher and the second President of India. When his students expressed a desire to celebrate his birthday, Dr. Radhakrishnan suggested observing it as a day to honour teachers nationwide. Since then, Teacher’s Day has been a tribute to the tireless efforts of educators in shaping the future of India.

It also offers a moment to reflect on how the student-teacher relationship has evolved over the years, particularly in the context of India’s changing social and educational landscape.

In the past, teachers were viewed primarily as authority figures whose role was to impart knowledge and maintain discipline. This traditional dynamic has undergone significant transformation. Today’s educators are more than knowledge providers– they are mentors, guides and often, friends to their students. This shift is partly driven by changes in educational philosophies, technological advancements and evolving societal expectations.

Teachers today engage in a more collaborative and empathetic approach, recognising the importance of addressing the emotional and psychological needs of students. They adapt to diverse learning styles and work closely with students to develop a conducive learning environment. In India, this evolution is particularly significant given the diverse socio-economic backgrounds of students, including a large number of first-generation learners.

The Role of Teachers as Influencers and Change-Makers

Teachers are often the first real influencers in a child’s life. For many students, especially those from underserved backgrounds or first-generation learners, teachers provide the first glimpse into a world of possibilities beyond their immediate circumstances. They play an important role in nurturing curiosity, fostering self-belief and encouraging students to aspire for more.

Teachers inspire, challenge and motivate, often becoming role models figures in their students’ lives. In a country like India, where educational access and quality vary greatly, the role of teachers becomes even more critical. They bridge gaps, provide encouragement and serve as role models, especially in rural or under-resourced areas.

This influence is not confined to academic knowledge– it extends to life skills, ethics and values. The modern teacher’s role encompasses being a mentor who can help students navigate the complexities of life, cope with challenges,and develop resilience. This broader role is particularly vital in supporting students from marginalised communities, helping them overcome societal barriers and equipping them with the skills needed to succeed in a competitive world.

Recognising Excellence in Teaching: National Teachers’ Awards 2024

To honour the dedication and commitment of exceptional educators, the Ministry of Education’s Department of School Education and Literacy has announced the winners of the National Teachers’ Awards 2024. This year, 50 teachers from across the country will get recognition for their outstanding contributions to education. The award ceremony, scheduled for September 5th at Vigyan Bhawan, highlights the diverse representation of teachers from 28 states, 3 union territories, and 6 organisations. Among the awardees are 34 male and 16 female educators (something that we should be concerned about in terms of gender representation), including two differently-abled teachers and one working with children with special needs (CWSN).

These awards are a proof of the dedication and impact of these educators in their respective communities. The selection process is rigorous, involving evaluations at the district, state and national levels. The awardees of this year represent a wide spectrum of teaching professionals who have gone above and beyond to provide quality education and nurture a fruitful learning environment.

The Changing Nature of Teaching in India

The nature of teaching in India has evolved significantly in recent years, driven by technological advancements, pedagogical innovations and a deeper understanding of diverse student needs. Teachers are now more equipped with digital tools and platforms that enhance the learning experience. This shift has necessitated continuous professional development, with teachers increasingly becoming learners themselves.

The integration of technology in classrooms has changed how teachers deliver content and engage with students. From smart classrooms to online learning platforms, the role of a teacher has expanded to include being a facilitator of digital literacy and critical thinking skills.

Additionally, the emphasis on inclusive education has reshaped the role of teachers. Educators today are trained to support diverse learning needs, including those of differently-abled students and those from varied socio-economic backgrounds. This inclusive approach fosters an environment where every student feels valued and capable of achieving their potential. The National Teachers’ Awards also recognise this aspect by honouring teachers who have excelled in inclusive education, thereby reinforcing the importance of diversity and equity in education.

The Future of Student-Teacher Relationships in India: Celebrating Teacher’s Day 2024

Looking ahead, the student-teacher relationship in India will become even more dynamic. With an increasing focus on personalised and experiential learning, teachers will continue to play a crucial role in adapting their teaching methods to suit individual student needs. The future of education in India will likely see a blend of traditional values with modern pedagogical approaches, fostering a learning environment that is both nurturing and challenging.

On this Teacher’s Day 2024, as we celebrate the teachers who have dedicated their lives to educating the next generation, it is also a time to reflect on the evolving role of educators. They are mentors, guides and, most importantly, changemakers who help shape the future of India.

A Special Thanks from Smile Foundation on Teacher’s Day 2024

On this occasion, Smile Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to all the teachers including those involved in our education programmes. These dedicated educators are changing lives of countless children, especially those from underserved backgrounds. Their commitment towards teaching has enabled many students to overcome barriers and achieve their dreams. At Smile Foundation, we recognise and celebrate the great impact our teachers have on shaping not just the future of our students, but also the future of our nation. We are deeply thankful for their unwavering dedication and passion.

Happy Teacher’s Day 2024 to all the educators who are making a difference, one student at a time!

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Women Empowerment

Is there an ongoing gender equality fight for entrepreneurship?

Is there an ongoing gender equality fight for entrepreneurship?
Is there an ongoing gender equality fight for entrepreneurship?

On August 29, Hurun India released a list of the top 10 wealthy people in the country. Though the list contained all the familiar names, it was heartbreaking to see that the list contained no names of women. This, despite the significant rise in the number of women leading businesses in the country in recent times. What is more heartbreaking is the fact that India is the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem and one of the thriving economies in the world.

However, the institute also released a separate list titled ‘Top 10 self-made women in Hurun India Rich List 2024’. The list was topped by Zoho’s co-founder Radha Vembu, followed by Nykaa’s founder Falguni Nayar and Arista Networks’ Jayshree Ullal.

The report also noted that women’s representation in Indian business and the workforce remains relatively low. “Women constitute only 14% of all entrepreneurs in the country and just 35% of startup employees are women. Even more striking, in 2021, only 5 out of 136 unicorn founders were women, a stark decline from previous years. In micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), women oversee a mere 20% of the 58.5 million enterprises,” the report said.

The data clearly shows that gender equality in entrepreneurship continues to remain an elusive goal. NSE data also confirms the same. As per the data, only close to 100 companies in the country have women as either managing directors or CEOs. This percentage of women CEOs in India is much lower than the global average of 23.3%.

Why does the gender inequality continue to persist in the Indian start-up ecosystem? What are the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs? Let’s discuss further in detail to get an overall understanding. 

Challenges for women entrepreneurs:

Access to capital

One of the evident barriers that women face in their entrepreneurship is access to capital. Research shows that women-led start-ups receive less funding in comparison with their counterparts, even though their performance is better in all aspects. The lack of access to capital makes their businesses underfunded. As a result, many budding women entrepreneurs end up shutting down their businesses within a short period of time.

Despite the fact that studies show that women-led companies tend to outperform their male counterparts in terms of return on investment, there is a misconception among the investors about the scalability and profitability of their businesses. Not just that, the glaring stereotypes and biases often cloud decision-making in the investment community. Venture capital and investment communities are dominated by men and often have less or no women representation.

The lack of women’s representation in the sectors reflects the lack of support or advocacy they need to run their businesses. The barrier to access to capital remains strong despite women constantly proving that they are well capable of establishing a successful business. 

Societal expectations

    Despite women holding important positions both in the government and multi-national companies, women are even today expected to juggle multiple roles. In many households, which are often considered supportive by society, women are expected to allocate time for their business only after completing their household chores, caregiving and motherly duties. How can a woman put her complete concentration on work if she ends up exhausting all her energy and time in taking care of her house?

    Perceived notion puts women only in domestic and caregiving positions and does not allow her to raise to beyond that. A woman is always expected to put her family first, not just over business pursuits but also over herself. If anything ever goes wrong anywhere—be it at home or at the workplace—society always puts the blame on the woman and accuses her. This bias often shatters the confidence of women and stops them from pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams.

    Mentorship and networking

      Most of the networking spaces, including professional events, have historically been catered to male priorities and interests. This often does not align with the needs of women entrepreneurs. Also, when a woman enters the man-dominated domain, she is often looked down upon.

      Women also face challenges in networking and grabbing mentorship from experts due to the existing socialisation pattern and societal expectations. This further deters women from pursuing their entrepreneurial ventures. The sector also lacks structured mentorship programmes that are tailored to support women entrepreneurs. Women are often not allowed to travel out of their city to attend mentorship programmes or broaden their networking connections.

      Also, the sector hardly has many women mentors or role models. This often results in putting women entrepreneurs with less or no mentorship. Without proper guidance and a lack of networks to expand the business, women-led startups often stall before collapsing completely—becoming one of the biggest challenges for women entrepreneurs.

      Bias and discrimination

        Gender bias and discrimination in entrepreneurship manifest in several ways. More than often, it negatively impacts women entrepreneurs at various stages of their business journey. Due to the entrenched stereotypes related to the role of women, their confidence and reliability, clients prefer to work with men over women. Without being treated on par with men, women often receive less respectful and more critical feedback from clients.

        Support systems like business incubators, accelerators, and advisory services may not always address the specific needs of women entrepreneurs. Even though it does, they are less accessible to them. The laws against gender discrimination remain insufficient and ineffective in the country. It makes it further harder for women to address and abolish discriminatory practices at the workplace.

        The country can see a rise in the number of successful women entrepreneurs only if the challenges are addressed properly. We need to follow a multifaceted approach by creating more inclusive networking spaces, supporting mentorship programmes and effective and stringent laws against discrimination at the workplace to resolve the issues. The government should take steps to encourage diversity and equal inclusion of women in investment to reduce funding disparities.

        Stakeholders should be educated about gender biases and how their impact can help challenge and change existing stereotypes and practices. Communities should also work on encouraging a cultural shift towards greater recognition and support for women in business. Without bringing in a change in society and their expectations for women, there will be no path ahead for women entrepreneurs. 

        Smile and Swabhiman

        Smile Foundation’s Swabhiman programme is a powerful force in the journey toward gender equality. This initiative takes a holistic approach, focusing on improving health, education and self-reliance for women in underserved communities. By offering essential resources and skills training, Swabhiman is breaking down the barriers that prevent women from realising their full potential.

        In the context of entrepreneurship, the programme provides a foundation for women to rise above systemic challenges like limited access to capital, mentorship and networking opportunities. Swabhiman equips women with vocational skills and with the confidence to pursue their ambitions. It’s a platform for women to transform their futures and reshape their communities. As the conversation around gender equality in entrepreneurship continues, initiatives like Swabhiman are important in leveling the playing field and creating lasting change.

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        Women Empowerment

        Envisioning a World Where Women Truly Lead

        Envisioning a World Where Women Truly Lead
        Envisioning a World Where Women Truly Lead

        In her influential TED Talk, “We Should All Be Feminists,” Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie presents a compelling vision for a world where gender equality redefines leadership. Adichie argues that rethinking our perceptions of gender can pave the way for a more just and balanced society where both men and women have the opportunity to flourish. She advocates for a world where women are in leadership roles, noting that such a shift would empower women and liberate men from restrictive societal expectations.

        Quoting the late Kenyan Nobel Peace Laureate Wangari Maathai, who poignantly observed, “The higher you go, the fewer women there are.” Adichie thus highlights the persistent gender disparities that continue to marginalise women despite their growing numbers in various sectors.

        A Disparity-Ridden Environment

        The statistics further highlight the significant difficulties women encounter around the world. According to the World Food Programme’s Gender Policy and Strategy, women and girls constitute 60 per cent of the chronically hungry population. Furthermore, women are significantly underrepresented in land ownership, holding less than 20 per cent of the world’s land, even though they comprise approximately 43 per cent of the agricultural labour force in developing countries. The alarming rates of violence against women further exacerbate the situation.

        The National Crime Records Bureau’s 2022 report on gender-based violence revealed a troubling increase from previous years, with over 445,000 cases registered in that year alone—equivalent to nearly 51 reported incidents every hour. This escalation underscores a systemic issue where women face significant threats to their safety and well-being.

        Overall, the disparities highlight a world that remains deeply unfair to women. Despite their substantial presence in various sectors and critical societal roles, women continue encountering significant barriers to equal opportunities and growth. The lack of supportive environments and persistent structural inequalities reflect a broader issue of gender injustice that needs to be addressed to create a truly equitable world where both women and men can thrive.

        Working towards a utopia: Where there are more women in lead roles

        In the face of this situation, to imagine a world wherein women indeed lead would be a challenging act of great diversion. To get a little less critical and think of this, it’s possible that in a world where women lead in every sphere—political, economic, social, and cultural—leadership’s core values and priorities could shift dramatically. To quote Dee Dee Myers, author of Why Women Should Rule the World, “If women ruled the world, politics would be more collegial, businesses would be more productive, and communities would be healthier.”

        Since women bring diverse perspectives as well as varied experiences to their respective roles, it can contribute to more holistic decision-making and inclusive policymaking. Myers argues that women’s focus on care and justice characterises women’s leadership. If women were to assume greater control over global leadership, they would likely prioritise sustainability, education and healthcare more vigorously, mirroring their historical roles in nurturing and community-building.

        According to Myers, women’s leadership styles typically emphasise collaboration, empathy, and consensus-building, which could lead to a more cooperative and less aggressive approach to governance and organisational management. 

        Leading by example

        A notable example is Jacinda Ardern, who became Prime Minister of New Zealand in October 2017. She provides a compelling case study of how women leaders can drive transformative changes in governance. Ardern’s leadership has been characterised by empathy and compassion. Her response to the Christchurch mosque attacks in March 2019 was marked by sensitivity and received widespread acclaim. “They are us. The person who has perpetrated this violence against us is not. They have no place in New Zealand,” Ardern had stated.

        Her immediate and heartfelt reaction, including her decision to wear a hijab in solidarity with the victims, showcased her deep sense of compassion and understanding. Under Ardern’s leadership, New Zealand also prioritised well-being and social justice. Her government introduced the Well-being Budget in 2019, shifting the focus from traditional economic indicators to broader measures of well-being. Her policies have also emphasised inclusivity and collaboration. Additionally, Ardern prioritised climate action, setting her apart from many other countries. Her leadership enhanced public trust and served as a model for different leaders.

        A long way to go for women in lead

        In his 2024 International Women’s Day speech, UN Secretary-General António Guterres underscored the remarkable efforts of women worldwide who are breaking barriers and challenging gender stereotypes despite numerous obstacles. Their relentless pursuit of equality has been inspiring and painstaking, reflecting a significant commitment to creating a fairer world. Yet, the journey toward gender parity has been slow and arduous.

        Guterres called for global governments to prioritise equality and bolster women’s representation to accelerate progress in the coming decade. His emphasis on the vital role of women in leadership vividly illustrates how a world where women are at the helm could offer a more equitable and inclusive future for all.

        To sum it up, a world where women genuinely lead represents a profound shift in how we understand and implement leadership. It promises a future marked by inclusivity, empathy and collaborative problem-solving. However, achieving this vision requires addressing systemic barriers, overcoming resistance, and fostering an intersectional approach to leadership.

        A nation-building vision drives Smile Foundation’s commitment to women’s empowerment. Our Swabhiman programme, launched in 2005, is dedicated to supporting marginalised and socially excluded women through targeted nutrition, healthcare and livelihood interventions and foster women in lead roles. By implementing innovative community-based practices, we aim to empower women and foster sustainable changes within their communities. The primary goal of Swabhiman is to promote gender equality, actively involving men and boys in the process of women’s empowerment.

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