From Hesitation to Hope: Inside Batch 13 at SSDC

Founded in 2018, Satsang Skill Development Center (SSDC) in Madanapalle has supported nearly 300 youth in building careers through skill development. Offering completely free, industry-relevant training to school and college dropouts across Annamayya district, SSDC has achieved an outstanding 98% placement rate across 13 batches. Graduates are now working in pharmacy retail, healthcare, education, digital marketing, and more, with many securing jobs in cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Tirupati.

On May 7, 2025, a new chapter began as Batch 13 walked in—34 motivated young individuals, each with unique backgrounds but united by a common desire: to build a better life for themselves and their families.

A Beginning Rooted in Trust

Many of Batch 13’s students joined SSDC after hearing about it through word of mouth in their communities. Once they expressed interest, comprehensive background checks were conducted, including home visits to understand their family situations and motivations. During these visits, SSDC staff often engaged with parents—explaining the purpose of skill development, the program’s format, and the safe learning environment—while sharing success stories of past students whose lives had changed through the training.

After selection, meetings were held with all trainees and their parents. For many students, especially girls, these conversations were pivotal. By walking families through the structure, safety measures, and success stories, teachers helped foster confidence in the program’s potential.

These early efforts helped lay a crucial foundation of trust—between SSDC, the students, and their families

The Four-Month Transformation Journey

Over four months, Batch 13 engages in an immersive curriculum that balances practical skills with personal development. The first month is a period of orientation and foundational learning. In the subsequent three months, students undergo three assessments per month in each course to monitor progress and provide constructive feedback.

A typical day at SSDC balances practical learning with personal growth. Mornings often begin with English and life skills sessions—students writing in their diaries, sharing thoughts in group discussions, or preparing presentations. Some had never spoken a full sentence in English before joining; they are now confidently attempting debates and role-plays. Each activity becomes a small breakthrough, helping students build confidence that carries far beyond the classroom.

Next comes Computer and Tally sessions, where students learn to use spreadsheets, draft letters, and understand digital bookkeeping and billing. For some, it’s the first time they’ve even used a keyboard. Over time, their hesitation fades, and the fear of “making a mistake” turns into curiosity and confidence.

Life skills sessions explore values like gratitude, patience, and compassion through storytelling and discussions. Batch 13 also benefits from the ongoing guidance of Organizational Development Consultant & Coach and Process Work Specialist Dr. Eswara Prasad, whose workshops on self-esteem and emotional resilience give students the tools to navigate personal challenges and insecurities. His one-on-one sessions offer a safe space for self-expression, helping students build inner strength alongside academic growth.

Learning at SSDC is not confined to the classroom. Students have already participated in blood donation awareness campaigns, yoga sessions, field trips and campus visits. These experiences nurture community service, teamwork, and a deeper sense of purpose.

What Lies Ahead

The second half of their course focuses on real-world preparation: mock interviews, resume building, and enhanced communication training. Students eagerly await industrial visits to companies where seniors are employed, HR interaction sessions, and a planned picnic for peer bonding.

Batch 13 draws inspiration from the 98% placement rate of their predecessors, who now work across diverse sectors. Many alumni have become change agents, bringing their employers back to SSDC for recruitment, demonstrating their commitment to helping fellow students. While most students start with ₹15-20,000 salaries, some have progressed to earn up to ₹70,000 with experience and promotions.

A Legacy of Transformation

Over the years, SSDC has steadily refined its curriculum and deepened its employer partnerships —while staying true to its core mission: to empower every student who walks through its doors. Batch 13 is following a well laid path, shaped by earlier students who turned training into real opportunities and built meaningful careers.

Just like their seniors, these students are learning more than just technical skills—they’re gaining confidence, clarity, and a stronger sense of self. They’re beginning to see that a job is more than a paycheck—it can bring dignity, independence, and the ability to support their families.

Through each class, activity, and conversation, they are building on the foundation laid by those who came before—continuing the SSDC journey of learning, effort, and opportunity.

The journey is still unfolding—but its direction is clear: upward, outward, and forward.

Support This Journey

Your support can fuel the transformation of another life.
 A one-time contribution of ₹18,000, or ₹1,500 per month for 12 months, covers:

  • Four months of training and mentorship
  • Learning materials and digital resources
  • Placement support and follow-up guidance
  • Life skills and emotional wellness programs

Make a Difference Today. Even a single donation can change the course of a life. Every act of giving supports a journey from uncertainty to self-reliance. Click here to donate.

Get Involved

Thank you to all our current donors, volunteers, and supporters for making this journey possible. With your continued support, we move forward with commitment and hope.

About The Satsang Foundation

The Satsang Foundation, founded by Sri M, is a meeting point for spiritual seekers of all persuasions. The Satsang Foundation also extends a helping hand to the less privileged of society.