Kerala's Manithookki Kani Tribe Get Bamboo Handicraft Startup

The Kerala University (KU) has taken a significant step towards empowering the members of the Manithookki Kani tribe by launching a startup called 'KU Life' in Vithura. K Radhakrishnan, the minister for the welfare of scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and backward classes, inaugurated the startup this week. This initiative, registered with the Kerala University Business Innovation and Incubation Centre, aims to provide opportunities for the tribal community and foster their entrepreneurial spirit.

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Training on Bamboo Handicraft Creations

The startup 'KU Life' is the outcome of a comprehensive 43-day training program organized by the university's Department of Sociology in collaboration with the Kerala Bamboo Mission. A total of 28 Kani tribe members participated in the training, which focused on bamboo handicraft creations. Divided into three phases, the program enabled the participants to grasp the intricacies of crafting around 18 different bamboo products. They were given hands-on practice and guidance to hone their skills, paving the way for them to independently create various items. To acknowledge their efforts, each participant was awarded a completion certificate at the conclusion of the training.

Promoting Self-Reliance and Entrepreneurship

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Speaking about the project, Sandhya R S, the project director and head of the Department of Sociology at KU, emphasized the importance of making tribal members self-reliant. She stated that the university's role is to provide continuous assistance and support throughout their journey, helping them discover their inner talents and potential. The long-term vision is to entrust the complete operation of the startup to the tribal members once their management skills are deemed proficient. This approach ensures that the initiative truly empowers the community and instills a sense of ownership.

Expansion Plans and Global Reach

In line with its mission to empower tribal communities, the Department of Sociology at KU has plans to extend similar workshops to other tribal settlements beyond Manithookki. By doing so, they aim to reach more individuals and create avenues for economic upliftment and skill development. Furthermore, the department is actively working towards establishing an online platform, a dedicated website, which will enable the public to access and purchase their products from anywhere in the world. This step would not only broaden the customer base but also provide wider exposure for the exquisite bamboo handicrafts created by the Kani tribe members.

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Support at KU Researchers' Fest

Currently, interested buyers can explore and purchase the products at the sociology department stall during the KU Researchers' Fest. However, with the upcoming launch of the website, customers worldwide will have the convenience of accessing the diverse range of bamboo handicrafts produced by the Kani tribe.

The launch of the 'KU Life' startup by the Kerala University signifies a significant milestone in the empowerment of the Manithookki Kani tribe. By equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to create bamboo handicrafts, the university is fostering self-reliance and entrepreneurship within the community. As the project gains momentum, it is hoped that it will serve as a model for similar initiatives across the region, promoting sustainable development and inclusivity for all tribal settlements.