ENGAGEMENTS IN MIGRANT COMMUNITIES AND BRICKKILNS
On This report provides an overview of engagements and activities conducted by the team in various migrant communities and brick kilns, aiming to understand and address the
challenges faced by migrant workers.
The team commenced its field visits with exploratory trips to government schools and brick kilns in Puduvoyal, Peruvoyal, and Keelmadalmedu. The objective was to acquaint two Sisters, Sr. Veronica and Sr. Premcila, with the conditions in these locations and engage with migrant families in brick kilns.
Subsequent visits includ ed an exploration of night tuition centers, discussions about the upcoming Pongal Celebration, and introductions to night schools and teachers. The team
also made visits to brick kilns to interact with owners, managers, and families, gaining insights into the livelihoods of migrant workers in these settings. The team engaged in discussions with Thiru. Sughumar (VAO) of Gumdippoondi to seek permission for surveys in Gumdippoondi and Pudupettai villages. Collaborative efforts with local authorities and communities were emphasized to effectively implement Jeevan Nirman Programmes.
A notable visit to brick kilns at Arani and Pondavakkam highlighted discussions on child education, elections affecting labor arrivals, and labor welfare. Plans for the commencement of school for brick kiln children were laid out.
Further visits to Arani areas and Puduvoyal involved discussions with kiln owners about child education and family welfare programs. Challenges related to late arrivals of laborers
were acknowledged, prompting ongoing efforts to collect details of migrant children and workers. The team visited Pudupettai and Gumdippoondi to coordinate survey work and engaged with
Thiru. Murti (AVO) of Pudupettai to discuss Jeevan Nirman programs. The involvement of agents and volunteers in survey activities was initiated, and plans were made to address the educational needs of migrant children.
The report also encompasses visits to Parvayal Government School, where discussions with school teachers sought information on lists from brick kiln chambers. Subsequent visits to various brick kiln chambers involved discussions on children’s lists and coordination with owners, supervisors, and workers.
In the latest update on January 30, 2024, the team visited Puduvoyal School, where three chambers had sent 100 children to school. Efforts were made to encourage another chamber to
send children for enrollment. These cumulative engagements underscore the commitment of the team towards understanding and addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by migrant workers. Collaborative efforts with local authorities, engagement with communities, and initiatives for child education and welfare programs form the core of the team’s endeavors.