First batch of certified masseuses pass out from blind school

Elaborating on the course,S Nagarajan,in-charge of the vocational training centre,said,“The six-month course began with 10 girls in the batch. One of the main reasons why we conduct this course is that it will make these girls economically independent and also help put their inhibitions behind and take up professions like these. Earlier,we had to train girls who were not educated and as a result avenues were limited for them. Now,with blind girls also getting educated,the need to develop their talents were felt and hence this course was also incorporated.”

“The girls here are trained in various types of massaging techniques and also in Swedish massage. In addition,women can come here and avail the facilities.

The girls are also taught basic cleanliness,methods to drape the cloth around the clients,conversational skills and also approaching each person according to her physical structure and medical history,” Nagarajan said.

Speaking about the recent MOU with the TMV,Dr Rajani Indulkar,honorary secretary of the Poona School and Home for the Blind Trust,says,“Though the course had been in existence for a while,we felt the need to get recognition for the same and as a result we decided to tie up with the TMV. The course,a six-month venture,will see the girls receive a certificate from the university. Till now about 40 girls have done the course in the past. They will also be eligible to receive the certificate after they complete a one-month course prescribed by the TMV.”

Indulkar said,“The girls here are mostly freelancers and work from home. However,some of them also find work with families where there are patients and need constant care. They can also continue to work here if they do not find a job or if they choose to work with us.

“If the course was for free till now,now a nominal amount will be charged as fee. Though the amount is not yet decided,the girls will be able to pay,” said Indulkar.