The Ministry of Tribal Affairs and Facebook have collectively initiated the second phase of Going Online as Leaders (GOAL). This program aims to digitally mentor 5000 young women, primarily from India’s tribal dominated regions, to transform them into digital leaders within their local communities. GOAL is particularly designed to guide and motivate tribal girls across India in digitally navigating through their lives, while also providing them with livelihood skills for their economic and social enhancement. Amidst the ever-growing digital age, the program strives to bridge the digital gender gap, further aiding women in securing online access and benefiting from digital services.
GOAL: Empowering Young Tribal Women
The principal aim of GOAL is to empower young tribal women by providing them with digital and life skills. This program, a first-of-its-kind initiative by Facebook and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, focuses on marginalized young women residing in tribal-dominated districts. The overarching goal here is to create village-level young digital leaders who can aid in the development of their communities.
Connecting Underprivileged Women with Expert Mentors
A significant aspect of the GOAL initiative is its provision of connections between these underprivileged tribal women and senior mentors who are experts in various sectors. These domains range from business and fashion to arts, where the mentors impart valuable digital and life skills. The communication and collaboration facilitate learning and sharing experiences, thereby cultivating a conducive environment for skill development.
Impact on Economic and Social Marginalization
Furthering its societal impact, GOAL provides these economically and socially marginalized young women with tools and guidance to develop livelihood skills. By doing so, it aids in boosting their economic independence and societal stature, thereby contributing significantly towards their overall empowerment.
| Sr. No. | Key Facts of GOAL Initiative |
|---|---|
| 1 | GOAL is a joint initiative by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and Facebook. |
| 2 | The second phase aims to digitally mentor 5000 young tribal women. |
| 3 | The program connects underprivileged young women with senior expert mentors in business, fashion, and arts sectors. |
| 4 | GOAL equips marginalized women with digital, life, and livelihood skills. |
| 5 | The initiative strives to bridge the digital gender gap. |
Lowering the Digital Gender Gap
As the world increasingly shifts online, it becomes imperative for everyone, including those from marginalized communities, to stay connected. With this in mind, GOAL seeks to enhance internet usage among tribal women, attempting to close the prevailing digital gender gap. By making more women ready for the digital age, GOAL ensures that they can access and effectively use digital services, opening up a plethora of opportunities for their growth and development.