The first batch of 25 students have received certificates from the Noor Konno Vocational Centre for Women in Haripur where they have acquired skills in sewing and dressmaking. The Vocational Centre aims to help thousands of vulnerable and women of the area in acquiring livelihood skills and become productive members of the society.
The Centre has been set up by the Noor Citizens Community Board Haripur, with the technical support of UNDP’s project: Support to Devolution Trust for Community Empowerment. The UNDP Goodwill Ambassador Ms. Misako Konno generously donated JPY 1 million (UAS 11,856), the proceeds from her recent book published in commemoration of her 10th anniversary as UNDP Goodwill Ambassador, During her visit to Pakistan last year. Ms. Konno, who is a well-known Japanese actress, TV personality and essayist, met female leaders and students of the Center and presented sewing sets and materials in advance.The Noor Konno Vocational Centre for Women has recruited two experienced instructors who are imparting skills in dressmaking, sewing, knitting and embroidery. The centre which started operations in April this year has initially trained 25 students and aims at helping 1000 local women become earning members of the society in its first year of operations.
Over the next few months, many other courses including making of block printing, fabric work, screen painting, scarf and shawl designs, jute work, lehnga (traditional skirts), clay vases, souvenirs and decoration items will be started. The centre also plans to organize and participate in exhibitions so that the students can display their skills and attract buyers for the formation of sustainable market linkages.
Toshihiro Tanaka, Country Director, UNDP Pakistan while thanking Ms. Konno and the Government of Japan says, "The people and government of Japan share a unique affinity with Pakistan and have always been on the forefront in development as well as emergency aid. We are especially touched by the personal donation from Ms. Konno which demonstrates her commitment towards helping people escape poverty".
See detailed video of Ms. Misako Konno’s visit to Pakistan here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgokM5DIol0
For further information and media assistance, please contact,Mehreen Saeed, Communication Analyst, UNDP Pakistan
4rth Floor Serena Office Complex, Islamabad, Pakistan
Tel: +92-51-8355650, Cell 0300 535 8225 or Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Website: http://www.undp.org.pk
UNDP is the UN's global development network, advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience and resources to help people build a better life. We are on the ground in 166 countries, working with them on their own solutions to global and national development challenges. As they develop local capacity, they draw on the people of UNDP and our wide range of partners
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