Literacy and self-respect

At first glance, the ability to sign one’s name might seem simple even ordinary. But for many construction labourers across Ahmedabad, it is a skill that can mean dignity, independence, and a step towards a better life,” says Rutvesh Prajapati, president of the Rotaract Club of Ahmedabad Elysium, RID 3055.

Recognising this basic need, his club launched Project Hak se Hashtakshar, a monthly outreach initiative that teaches daily wage labourers how to sign their names. “The project falls under Rotary’s focus area of Basic Education and Literacy, and was recently featured in the South East Asia Rotaract Information Centre (SEARIC) Spotlight magazine for its innovative and impactful approach,” he brims with joy.

“It’s heartbreaking to see hardworking individuals still using thumbprints for things like banking or school admissions,” says the club president. “We realised that learning to sign their own name could be a powerful first step towards literacy and self-respect.”

The club members visit construction sites each month, conducting one-on-one awareness sessions with workers. Pens and diaries are distributed to help them practise in their free time. “It’s not just about learning to sign. It’s about being seen, being counted and being proud of your identity,” says Prajapati.

We see this not just as a project, but as a movement. Every signature is a story of change.
– Rutvesh Prajapati, club president

The idea for the project was born out of a community assessment, where club members spoke to construction labourers, community leaders, and local partners. Through surveys, focus groups, and personal observations, they discovered how lacking even this most basic skill was affecting workers’ ability to participate in social life.

One labourer, hesitant at first, smiled after signing his name for the first time. “Mujhe laga main kabhi nahi seekh paunga. Ab lagta hai main kuch kar sakta hoon (I thought I’d never be able to learn. Now I feel like I can do something),” he said, holding on to the diary given to him.

As the club continues to expand the initiative, they are also working on building sustainable partnerships with schools, community centres and local organisations. Prajapati explains that the long-term goal is to train volunteers who can keep the momentum going and widen access to basic education. “We see this not just as a project, but as a movement. Every signature is a story of change,” he smiles.