Sewing Schools
Usha International is probably the first corporate to run more than 400 sewing schools all over the country. Started in 1950, these include, centres run directly by the company, dealer run centres, army welfare centres and centres run by individuals that get affiliated to the overall Usha network. Every year over 20,000 students are trained in ‘cutting and tailoring’, ‘embroidery’ and ‘fashion designing’ in these schools.
The sewing school network is aimed at imparting sewing skills to girls and women, in an endeavor to empower them. . The courses are so designed that the students become adept at stitching and embroidery and can immediately start earning their own livelihood. The course covers both theoretical as well as practical training so as to provide students thorough knowledge in tailoring, dressmaking and embroidery. The Usha Sewing Schools offer special short term courses apart from regular 6 months courses in ‘Cutting and Tailoring’, ‘Embroidery’ and “Fashion Designing’.
Keeping pace with the changing demands of a fashion driven market, Usha International Ltd. is in the process of revamping these sewing schools. Commenting on this Chhaya Shriram, the spirit and the main drive behind this change says, “The market now is entirely different from what it was 50 year back. Therefore we should look at our women becoming designers’ not just tailors. Keeping this in view we are reworking on the entire syllabus to make our courses more trendy and relevant in today’s market.’’ The courses have been revamped, but upgradation would now be a constant feature of these schools.
The sewing schools also provide a great opportunity to women to earn their livelihoods, by becoming a part of the Usha Sewing Schools network. Women can get their schools affiliated to Usha Sewing Schools network by conforming to some simple norms set by Usha. NGOs, social institutions, trusts and other welfare bodies can also take Usha accreditation to serve their social cause by teaching the sewing and embroidery curriculum. To know more about ‘getting an Usha affiliation’ please write in to ps_chopra@ushainternational.com.
The schools operating under Usha are privy to discounts on the purchase of Usha sewing machines. The teachers are trained by Usha on the syllabus and are given regular mentorship. The students passing out from the Usha Sewing Schools are give diplomas and certificates, which are often helpful in getting the Usha alumni, loans and jobs.
Usha also undertakes special training requests for social causes. Last year, training was carried out on behalf of the Army for the women of Kashmir, in Baramulla.
