 |
 Capacity building programmes at Manavodaya
commenced in 1996 when chief executives and workers of a large number of non
governmental organisations (NGOs) were imparted field based training in the
formation of self help groups. All these programmes were residential with 25 to
30 participants. They involved role plays, practical exercises, field visits,
group discussions, lectures, film shows and self reflection sessions. the
programmes became so effective in developing requisite knowledge, skills and
attitudes that Manavodaya became a popular centre in capacity building.
Over the years, similar programme
have been organised for senior and middle level functionaries
belonging to other sectors like banks and government bodies from
several parts of North India with the sponsorship of
institutions like NABARD, UNICEF, Rashtriya Mahila Kosh, Wolrd
Bank, etc. Manavodaya is now considred an institution of
excellence in capacity building in subjects like self help,
micro finance and participatory development.
Special Features of Training
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a. |
Concepts and Attitudes |
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Many participants come to
programmes with negative mindsets and beliefs that
microfinance cannot work in Uttar Pradesh. That it is
successful only in South or West India, and given the
socio-political conditions of their area, it is futile
to take it seriously. The first day of a programme is
therefore, usually devoted to brainstorming on concepts
with experience sharing, role plays and free flow of
ideas among all participants. Such interactive
experience is found to be immensely useful for initial
orientation. |
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b. |
Open and Intensive Field Learning |
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Field based learning is
perhaps the strongest componet of a programme. The
participants are divided into small groups having a
clearly defined yet open agenda for interaction. The
group members are also split into small groups. During
interaction every participant can thus have an informal
talk to his/her heart's content. They are also
encouraged to talk about the problems and challenges
faced by group members including negative experiences in
the past. Towards the end, selected participants and
group members narrate the overall observations and
feelings. Every such interaction becomes a source of
inspiration and/or empowerment for both the hosts and
the visitors. |
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c. |
Special Exercises in Accounts |
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From our meetings and
visits to groups formed by earlier participants,
accounts-keeping methods were found to be very poor and
often responsible for malfunctioning of groups. In our
training programmes, therefore, considerable emphasis is
placed on learning these through practical exercises.
Simplified accounting systems have been evolved so that
locally paid accountants can handle the job with ease. |
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d. |
Self Reflection |
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This has often been
described as one of the most important components of a
programme. A process of self reflection done
collectively enables participants to examine and express
their views on issues associated with their goals,
values and perspectives of development and change. With
proper facilitation this has the potential of bringing
about significant change in the mindset of participants.
Discussion on human values is usually the basis for such
interaction. |
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e. |
Winding Up Test |
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Towards the end of every
programme a simple oral test is conducted in the form of
a quiz. This enables the participants to self evaluate
themselves and clarify any remaining doubts that they
may have. |
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For feedback of the participants
click here. |
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