Bridging Aspirations with Reality: Participatory Workshop Held with SURYA Students at Raidighi

As part of a collaborative learning initiative between MUKTI’s Education and Rights verticals, the MUKTI SURYA team organized a participatory Needs Assessment Workshop on 12th June 2025 at the SURYA Centre, Raidighi. The session was facilitated by Ms. Nandita Jayraman, Programme Manager – Rights.

The primary objective of the workshop was to explore the employability needs of the SURYA students and delve into their increasing inclination toward “work from home” aspirations. Through interactive group activities and open discussions, the workshop created a safe space for students to voice their thoughts, concerns, and ambitions.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from the students, who candidly shared their perspectives. Their reflections provided valuable insights into the socio-economic factors shaping their career preferences and future goals. The session not only enhanced mutual understanding but also strengthened the students’ confidence to express themselves freely in a group setting.

As a practical takeaway, participants were assigned a field-based group task—a market research study on local earning opportunities in their area. The findings from this assignment are expected to be submitted within seven days of the workshop and will inform future program interventions.

This cross-sectoral effort reaffirms MUKTI’s commitment to youth empowerment through context-sensitive, participatory learning models that respond to the evolving needs of rural communities.