Mahila Samakhya programme

The Mahila Samakhya programme was initiated in 1987-1989 to translate the goals of National policy on Education and Empowerment of women in rural areas, particularly of women from socially and economically marginalised groups. The MS programme covers 11 states including Kerala.

Education in Mahila Samakhya is understood not merely as acquiring basic literacy skills, but as a process of learning to question, critically analysing issues and problems and seeking solution. It endeavours to create an environment for women to learn at their own pace, set their own priorities, seek knowledge and information facilitating informed choices. It seeks to bring about a change in women’s perception about themselves and of society in regard to women’s “traditional roles”.

Mahila Samakhya works to garner women energies to collectively solve their problems and empower them to address issues themselves through Mahila Sanghas at the grassroot level.