2026
- SKILL DEVELOPMENT
- Kanyakumari – 03.01.2026
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Training Program
As part of the Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam (KKT), Sapphire Blue Social Trust (SBST) organized a One-Day Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program at Kanyakumari on 03 January 2026. The training was conducted for the job roles of Master of Advanced Tailoring and Master of Advanced Weaving and Embroidery under the 2nd Batch of the RPL initiative.
A total of 139 candidates participated in the program, comprising 135 candidates from Tailoring and 4 candidates from Weaving and Embroidery. Following the assessment and validation of their prior skills and experience, certificates were awarded to all eligible participants on the same day. The program contributed to the formal recognition of traditional craftsmanship and helped artisans strengthen their professional standing within the textile and garment sector.
- CLUSTER DEVELOPMENT
- Nalaparampatti, Dharmapuri District – 23.1.2026
Pottery Artisans Cluster Development Initiative
SBST is implementing a cluster development initiative for pottery artisans. As part of this program, we have invited Smt. Amrit Raj, Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), O/o the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Shri. Lakshman Rao Athukuri, Regional Director (Handicrafts), Southern Regional Office, Chennai, and Smt. Neetha T G, AD (H), Handicrafts Service Centre, Salem to visit the cluster and engage with the artisans.
Their visit aims to identify the challenges and opportunities within the craft, while also guiding the artisans on relevant government schemes to support their livelihoods. The primary objective was to facilitate a direct dialogue between the guest and the pottery artisans regarding their current operational struggles. This interaction not only showcases our progress but also ensures the artisans gain access to vital government welfare programs.
- SKILL DEVELOPMENT
- Theni – 04.02.2026
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Training Program
Under the Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam (KKT), Sapphire Blue Social Trust (SBST) organized a one-day Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program in Theni on 04 February 2026. The training was conducted for the job role of Master of Advanced Tailoring and included 11 experienced candidates in the first batch.
Following the assessment and validation of their existing skills, all participants were awarded certificates on the same day. The program was designed to formally recognize and strengthen the expertise of tailoring professionals, enabling them to enhance their employability and access better livelihood opportunities.
- SKILL DEVELOPMENT
- Dindigul – 05.02.2026
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Training Program
Sapphire Blue Social Trust (SBST) conducted the Second Batch of the One-Day Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Training under the Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam (KKT) at Dindigul on 05 February 2026. The program covered the trades of Master of Advanced Tailoring, Weaving, and Embroidery, providing an opportunity for skilled artisans to have their existing competencies formally assessed and recognized.
A total of 39 candidates participated in the training, including 38 candidates in Tailoring and 1 candidate in Weaving and Embroidery. Upon successful completion of the assessment process, certificates were distributed to all participants on the same day. The initiative helped strengthen the professional credentials of artisans and supported their continued growth in the traditional textile and garment sector.
- SKILL DEVELOPMENT
- Perambalur – 11.02.2026
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Training Program
Sapphire Blue Social Trust (SBST) conducted a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) training program under the Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam (KKT) scheme at Perambalur on 11 February 2026. The program focused on Master of Advanced Tailoring and was conducted as a one-day training session for 30 candidates.
Upon successful completion of the training, certificates were distributed to all participants on the same day, recognizing their existing skills and enhancing their professional credentials in the tailoring sector. The initiative aimed to strengthen the capabilities of skilled artisans and support their livelihood opportunities through formal skill recognition.
- HEALTH AWARENESS
- Vellode – 11.02.2026
Cancer Awareness Program
Sapphire Blue Social Trust (SBST) conducted a cancer awareness program for the school students of Vivekanantha Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Vellode. This program aimed to create awareness among school students about the importance of healthy eating and a healthy lifestyle to prevent diseases.
Through interactive sessions, the students were educated on the harmful effects of junk food and encouraged to adopt nutritious diets and active routines for their overall well-being.
- SKILL DEVELOPMENT
- Erode – 10.03.2026
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Training Program
Sapphire Blue Social Trust (SBST) successfully conducted the 3rd Batch of the One-Day Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Training under the Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam (KKT) at Erode on 10 March 2026. The program focused on the job roles of Master of Advanced Tailoring and Master of Advanced Weaving and Embroidery, enabling experienced artisans to obtain formal recognition for their existing skills.
A total of 22 candidates participated in the training, including 20 candidates from Tailoring and 2 candidates from Weaving and Embroidery. After the completion of the assessment process, certificates were distributed to all successful participants on the same day. The initiative supported skill validation, enhanced professional credibility, and encouraged the growth of traditional textile and garment-related occupations.
- SKILL DEVELOPMENT
- Kanyakumari – 14.03.2026
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Training Program
Under the Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam (KKT), Sapphire Blue Social Trust (SBST) conducted the 3rd Batch of the One-Day Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program at Kanyakumari on 14 March 2026. The training was organized for the job role of Master of Advanced Tailoring and provided a platform for skilled tailoring professionals to have their prior learning and work experience formally recognized.
A total of 31 candidates participated in the program and successfully completed the assessment process. Certificates were distributed to all eligible participants on the same day, helping them strengthen their professional credentials and improve opportunities for sustainable livelihood and career advancement in the tailoring sector.
- ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS
- Periyakodiveri, Erode District – 05.06.2026
World Environment Day Celebration
Sapphire Blue Social Trust (SBST) celebrated World Environment Day at Periyakodiveri, Erode District. As part of the event, tree saplings were distributed to Handloom Weavers and Hand Block Printing Artisans, and a tree plantation drive was conducted to promote environmental awareness and a greener future.
- ECO-FRIENDLY INITIATIVE
- Sathumugai, Erode District – 05.06.2026
Yellow Cotton Bag Distribution Program
Sapphire Blue Social Trust (SBST) distributed Yellow Cotton Bags to the students of Government Middle School, Sathumugai, Erode District. The initiative was conducted to create awareness among school students about the importance of using eco-friendly cloth bags and reducing the use of plastic bags in their daily lives.
Through this program, SBST encouraged students to adopt sustainable practices and become responsible ambassadors for environmental protection in their communities.
- ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS
- Sathumugai, Erode District – 05.06.2026
Medicinal Plant Awareness Program
Sapphire Blue Social Trust (SBST) distributed medicinal plants to school students and planted medicinal trees within the school campus to promote environmental awareness. The program aimed to educate students about the importance, benefits, and traditional uses of medicinal plants.
Through this initiative, students gained valuable knowledge about nature-based healthcare, environmental conservation, and the role of medicinal plants in maintaining a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.
- HEALTH AWARENESS
- Sathumugai – 2026
Free Eye Camp
Sapphire Blue Social Trust (SBST) in association with The Eye Foundation Erode conducted a Free Eye Camp at Sathumugai village of Sathyamangalam Taluk, Erode district.
The camp aimed to provide essential eye care services to the local community, including vision screening and consultations. More than 200 people benefited from this health initiative.
- HEALTH AWARENESS
- Semandampatti – 21.06.2026
International Yoga Day
Sapphire Blue Social Trust (SBST) celebrated International Yoga Day at Semandampatti, Salem, organizing a special yoga program for handloom weavers on June 21, 2026.
The program provided participants with an opportunity to learn and practice basic yoga techniques. It created awareness about the physical, mental, and emotional health benefits of yoga, helping weavers manage work-related stress, reduce physical discomfort, and enhance their overall quality of life.
Sapphire Blue Social Trust is committed to empowering marginalized communities through education, health, and skill development programs across Tamil Nadu.
