The Rotary Club of Coimbatore Smart City, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Dubai Downtown, RI District 2452, inaugurated the i-SMART Vocational Training Center, a Rotary Foundation Global Grant Project, at the National Federation of the Blind (NFB), Uppilipalayam, Coimbatore on Thursday.
The inauguration was held in the august presence of Sri Giri Prasath, MLA, Singanallur Constituency; Rtn. Chella K. Raghavendran, District Governor 2025–26, RI District 3206; Project Chair Rtn. Manish Vyas; Project Co-Chair & Assistant Governor Rtn. Rohini Sharma; Project Coordinator & President Rtn. Murtuza Raja; Lion Manoharan, Director – Project Southern India, National Federation of the Blind; and Sadasivam, Coordinator, NFB Coimbatore Centre.
The centre has been established with the vision of empowering persons with visual impairment through skill development, digital literacy, financial literacy, and employment-oriented training.
The i-SMART Vocational Training Center currently provides 25 visually challenged students with comprehensive training in computer applications, digital skills, financial management, workplace readiness, and professional development, equipping them with the skills required for meaningful employment and independent living. The total cost of the Global Grant project is 76000USD.
A unique feature of the project is its inclusive employment model. The centre has created employment opportunities for 10 visually challenged faculty and staff members, who serve as trainers, mentors, and role models, demonstrating that visual impairment is no barrier to professional excellence and leadership.
To ensure that students can focus entirely on their education and skill development, residential accommodation is provided by the National Federation of the Blind. Nutritious breakfast, lunch, and dinner are sponsored and served through the Rotary Club of Coimbatore Smart City’s flagship Project Roti Bank, while cots and essential bedding have also been provided by the Rotary Club of Coimbatore Smart City, creating a safe, comfortable, and supportive learning environment.
The project aims to bridge the digital divide by providing accessible computer systems equipped with assistive technologies, enabling visually challenged individuals to acquire industry-relevant skills. Beyond education, the initiative seeks to enhance employability, promote financial independence, and foster dignity through sustainable livelihoods.
Speaking on the occasion, Rotary leaders reaffirmed their commitment to inclusive community development and emphasised that the i-SMART Vocational Training Center exemplifies Rotary’s mission of “Service Above Self” by creating lasting social impact through international collaboration and sustainable vocational empowerment.
The Rotary Club of Coimbatore Smart City expressed its sincere gratitude to the Rotary Club of Dubai Downtown, RI District 2452, the National Federation of the Blind, donors, volunteers, and all stakeholders whose unwavering support made this transformative Global Grant project a reality.
