Belonging to an economically weak family, Ravi Narawade hails from the slums of Ulhasnagar, Maharashtra. His father works as a carpenter with meagre earnings and brothers in private sector, drawing bare minimum wages. With family income of Rs 11,000 per month, Ravi had little hopes for securing a bright and sustainable future. His family had to purchase even the basic amenities like water and toilet services. Increasing cost of living and supporting a family of five became difficult with the passage of time, compelling Ravi to discontinue his education post 11^th standard.

Ravi tried hard to find a suitable job to support his family but due to his incomplete education and lack of skills, he couldn’t succeed. Soon, a mobilizer from Pratham Skill Institute met Ravi and counselled him about the plumbing training program at the Panvel Centre supported by Voltas, an Indian Plumbing Skills Council (IPSC) authorized training partner. With the provision of food, accommodation facilities and most importantly, linkage to placement opportunities, Ravi could see a flicker of hope for the future.

Ravi’s visit to the centre motivated him to join the training. In his counselling session, he was informed about the plumbing sector, job profiles required, growth in the sector, scope and self-contracting business concepts. As more complex and strategized plumbing structures are gaining demand in the economy, the need for skilled plumbers is also rising. Studies show that by 2020, more than 12 lakh trained plumbers are required to meet the demands of the economy.

Assuring himself and his family, he enrolled himself for the two-month course where he learnt basic English and Computer, how to present himself, write resumes along with theory and practical classes.

The training developed his self-confidence and prepared him to face any challenge in his personal and professional life.

After completing the course, he secured a job of Service Technician, at a monthly salary of Rs 8,500 with additional benefits. Ravi has found an avenue for a secured and sustainable future. He is content with his job and enjoys learning new things. He has also, bought a new television and refrigerator for the family. Ravi is among the thousands of people who have climbed the ladder of opportunity by realizing the potential of their skills.