On 22 April 2025, Part III: Action Research and Resource Centre, in collaboration with Gaurav Grameen Sanstha, organised a one-day capacity-building workshop in Musahar Tola, Bhelwada village, under Phulwari block of Patna district. The session was facilitated by Pratima, Vipul, Imran, and Vanshika, with coordination support from Jeevika. The workshop was part of Part III’s ongoing efforts to address systemic social, economic, and legal issues faced by historically excluded communities through community-led, research-based interventions.
The day began with a visit to the settlement, where the team observed the lack of basic infrastructure, including a crumbling primary school building, the absence of a drainage system, and poor sanitation. This was followed by a participatory research training with 12 first-generation learners from the community, divided into the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Group and the Savitribai Phule Group. Each group identified and presented key challenges faced by the community, such as a lack of sanitation and waste disposal facilities, poor school infrastructure and barriers to girls’ education, and the absence of local employment or skill development opportunities for youth. Alongside articulating these issues, participants also suggested practical solutions, including the construction of drainage channels, permanent and safe school buildings, transportation facilities for girls, vocational training centres, and small-scale livelihood opportunities.
The day also included a public recognition ceremony for children from the community who have overcome significant challenges to pursue their education.
The workshop concluded with a commitment to develop a community-led action plan based on the issues identified. This will include advocacy with local authorities for improved sanitation and health services, policy-level engagement for school infrastructure, and planning of youth skill development and mentorship programmes. This initiative marks an important step towards building leadership within the community and laying the foundation for long-term, just, and locally driven change.