Participants are primarily women who are widowed or who previously had dropped out of school. They studied a number of vocational disciplines and handicrafts, including nutrition and sewing. In addition to training in specific skills, the women also received instructional kits to assist in setting up their own small businesses.
Through this program, the government aims to empower these women to become self-reliant and to take on entrepreneurial roles in their communities. In light of the program’s success so far, funds have already been appropriated to continue the program through 2015. Moreover, three new vocational training centers will be established in order to expand the program into areas currently not served.