Question

KSLMA's activities have been expanded to focus on vulnerable and marginalized sections of society, including which of the following?

• A. Retired government employees
• B. Foreign tourists
• C. Scheduled caste, scheduled tribes, and transgenders
• D. Private business owners

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Scheduled caste, scheduled tribes, and transgenders

KSLMA and its Expanded Focus

• The Kerala State Literacy Mission Authority (KSLMA) is an autonomous institution under the General Education Department, Government of Kerala.
• It was established with the primary objective of achieving total literacy and continuing education in the state, building upon the successes of the Kerala literacy movement.
• KSLMA's activities are a significant component of the Kerala Model of Development, which emphasizes high social development indicators alongside economic growth.
• Initially, KSLMA focused on basic literacy programs for adult illiterates. However, its mandate has been progressively expanded over the years.
• The expansion reflects Kerala's commitment to inclusive development, ensuring that the benefits of education and social welfare reach all segments of society, especially the most vulnerable.

Targeting Vulnerable and Marginalized Sections

• KSLMA has broadened its scope to specifically address the educational and social needs of Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST).
• Programs for SC/ST communities often involve culturally sensitive learning materials and tailored approaches to overcome specific barriers like geographical isolation, historical discrimination, and language differences.
• These initiatives aim to improve their literacy rates, enhance life skills, and facilitate their integration into mainstream society and economy.
• In a progressive move, KSLMA also extended its focus to include the transgender community.
• This inclusion is part of Kerala's pioneering efforts in promoting transgender rights and welfare, making it one of the first states in India to adopt such inclusive policies.
• The objective is to provide educational opportunities, social recognition, and empower transgender individuals, addressing the unique challenges they face due to societal marginalization and discrimination.
• KSLMA implements various schemes like the 'Aksharasagaram' (coastal literacy program) and specific tribal literacy projects, which exemplify its commitment to reaching diverse groups.
• The expansion underscores the belief that true development is achieved only when education and opportunities are accessible to everyone, regardless of their social, economic, or gender identity.