Cherysh Trust

The integration of Information Communication Technology (ICT) into rural education in Haliyal marks a significant stride, as 20 women undergo comprehensive training in computer usage and internet navigation. Facilitated by the Deshpande Private Industrial Training Institute, Haliyal, this initiative, sponsored by Intel Corporation, commenced its training on July 25, 2019, in state-of-the-art multimedia classrooms. Embracing the transformative power of technology, this project underscores the profound impact ICT has had on the world, emphasizing its continuous evolution and the newfound opportunities it brings to rural communities.

Emphasizing the pivotal role of technology in shaping the future, the incorporation of computer science education is underway in the villages of Haliyal, located in the Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka. The introduction of e-Shiksha Centres aims to impart crucial computer science knowledge, including coding, physical computing, and problem-solving, to the girl children of Haliyal's villages. Notably, Learning Facilitators will undergo a transformative shift to become educators in technology. The pandemic has underscored the indispensable significance of technology in the realm of education, further fueling the initiative to bring tech-driven learning to these rural communities.

CherYsh Shiksha - After School Learning Centres aim for the holistic development of children by providing quality assistance tailored to their learning needs. These learning spaces, situated in village neighbourhoods, utilize community members' homes or common rooms to create an environment where children not only learn but also cultivate aspirations. Trained young women from the community serve as Learning Facilitators, offering augmented learning support to over a thousand children. The Active Rural Curriculum incorporates engaging methodologies like music, art, puppetry, and games, enhancing English and Math skills. Phonics-based English learning, digital modules, and sports activities contribute to a comprehensive educational experience, spanning 26 villages with plans for further expansion.

In the villages of Haliyal, CherYsh fosters economic empowerment through initiatives like Karakushala Kendras, where women utilize their handicraft skills for livelihood. Training, seed funding, and marketing assistance are provided, operating under the ambit of Self-Help Groups (SHG). These centres showcase diverse skills, from hand embroidery to quilting, creating a platform for women to share techniques. The Sugarcane Bud Nursery, managed entirely by women in partnership with EID Parry, proves successful. CherYsh also promotes social enterprises, turning rural women into entrepreneurs by creating opportunities in spice mix production, pickle-making, and skill development through Serve And Lead Training (SaLT)

CherYsh collaborates with 'A Hundred Hands,' a non-profit dedicated to championing handmade arts and crafts, ensuring artisans achieve a fair and sustainable livelihood. The Mundwad Shawls and Stoles group, now a proud member, is set to participate in the annual exhibition, 'The Handmade Collective. This 5-day event provides a platform for the talented Mundwad women to showcase and market their intricately crafted work, fostering opportunities for them to thrive in the world of handmade arts and crafts.