In 2020, Ajith from Tiruvannamalai district came to know for the first time that he has leprosy. Although he started his treatment from a local primary health centre, deep inside he was unnerved. A sudden change in the attitude of his family members towards him was not something he had anticipated. He was slowly slipping into depression.

Ajith used to feel lonely and cut-off from society. He was also worried about his prospects. On completing 12th class, he decided not to pursue higher studies. Precisely at that moment, he got a sense of purpose when a team from The Leprosy Mission (TLM) vocational training centre (VTC) in Vadathorasalur met him at his place and counselled him to join the VTC.

After giving it a much thought, in August 2022, he enrolled himself in Electrician (Dual system of training) trade in the VTC. This transition was not smooth for Ajith. In the beginning, he didn’t demonstrate any interest in studies. It took consistent counselling by the instructors to get him interested in the course. He was also trained to practice self-care to prevent any physical wounds and deformity.

Ajith turned into a sincere student, putting in all his efforts into learning. Meanwhile, the VTC started exploring options for placing students in the position of Electrical Safety Technician. The team approached several companies and got in touch with the JEF Tech through the Aram Porul Foundation. The Managing Director of JEF Tech, Mr Ganesan, visited the campus.

Impressed with the faculty members and their approach towards training, he expressed interest in giving jobs to the students. This is perhaps the first time that his organisation decided to hire ITI graduates instead of Diploma College graduates. Ajith was one of the seven trainees who were selected for on-the-job training. In fact, he was among the three best trainees.

“More than training, what the VTC has given me is the confidence to have faith in my abilities, irrespective of my disease and vulnerable condition. The staff members have helped me change my approach towards life and shown me how important it is to be strong-willed and positive,” says Ramalakshmi.

After completing the training, the 22-year-old Ajith is now ready to join the organisation as an Electrical Safety Auditor with a salary of INR 20,000.