Coaching programme for dhobis' draws blank

KOZHIKODE: The Kerala Institute of Labour and Employment’s (KILE) free PSC coaching programme for employees and their dependants in the unorganized sector has received  lukewarm response.   Only 10 persons are participated  in the programme   in Kozhikode district, and none  from the dhobi and  domestic workers’ groups. The programme was meant for the employees belonging to barber-beauticians, dhobis and domestic workers who were registered under Kerala Labour Welfare Fund Board. The poor  response was in spite of the existence of the  Muthalakkulam dhobi ghat here for generations.

“The coaching includes free accommodation and food besides distribution of study materials. The 10 participants comprised  three women,” said Labour Welfare Fund Inspector  P.S. Vipin.  Except a serving barber, all others are dependants. The  novel programme,  which  was kickstarted in Thiruvananthapuram district,  will be held  in Ernakulam next.  “Only 24 people made use of the coaching in Thiruvananthapuram and  35 members registered in Ernakulam where the coaching will commence on March 21,” said KILE training-wing officer  S. Jayashree.  KILE  coaches  employees and their dependants  registered under 15 welfare boards. Meanwhile, P. Kumaran, a dhobi in Kozhikode,  said  they  were not aware of such a programme.