Homecare nursing empowers 15,000 girls
With a constantly updated curriculum and hands-on training, the 25-year-old Homecare Nursing programme of RC Chandigarh Midtown, RID 3080, has equipped over 15,000 girls with essential skills for employment in hospitals, private clinics and as provider of aftercare services at homes.
Initiated by the club under the Rotary Skilling India banner, the six-month programme is divided into four months of theory classes and two months of practical learning. The curriculum is designed to cover various aspects of nursing, including basic nursing techniques, first aid, nutrition, physiotherapy and mental wellness. “Over the years, many of our graduates have excelled in their roles, thus showing their proficiency in patient care, leading to appreciative letters from their employers and patients alike,” said club secretary Anup Sharma. The programme has also contributed to bridging the gap in the healthcare sector by enabling trained professionals to meet the increasing demand for nursing services, he added.
However, despite the success of the nursing programme, “challenges such as funding constraints, logistical issues and need for constant update of the curriculum remain.” In future, Sharma said, “we will expand our programme to reach rural areas, include the latest techniques in nursing, and fostering partnerships with hospitals for upgrading the training opportunities.”
As part of its mission to empower women, the club is conducting a six-month skill development course for assistant beauty technicians at its Rotary Vocational Centre, Haripur, over the last three years. Course completion certificates were distributed to 160 girls who have finished their training.
These young women have not just mastered the art of makeup and hairstyling, “but they have embarked on a journey of self-employment and empowerment,” said Sharma. “The skill development certificates will unlock new opportunities and dreams for them.” Some of the trainees have already stepped into the professional world, securing placement as assistant technicians in beauty parlours, he added.
Toilet block upgrade
In a transformative project, a toilet block at the Government Model Sanskriti Primary School at Bhudanpur in Panchkula was renovated, with a few washrooms added, by the club at a cost of ₹4 lakh. The sanitation project that will benefit 900 students was made possible with the dedication of Rajeev Chopra, a club member. Club president Jeeten Bhambri took up the project inspired by a presentation by the NGO Aashi Foundation, and was supported by AG Sanjeev Checker.
Buggy vehicle
An e-rickshaw (₹1.5 lakh) was handed over to the Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital, Mullanpur, for transporting cancer patients within the premises to get hassle-free medical treatment. Bhambri and his team were supported by Sanjeevani, an NGO reaching out to cancer patients, in presenting the buggy vehicle to hospital director Dr Ashish Gulia. Another vehicle will be donated to the hospital shortly, “as there is a growing need for such services in patient care. Both the vehicles were funded through member contributions,” said Sharma. Dr Gulia pointed out the need for a hostel (sarai) for patients’ care givers.
