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.
