The Ahavaan Aftercare Conference brought together key stakeholders, including NGOs, government representatives, and care leavers, to discuss strengthening aftercare support in India. The event underscored the need for structured mentorship, employment, education, and policy reforms to help young people transitioning out of child care institutions (CCIs) achieve independence.
Prioritizing Family-Based Care and Holistic Support
Vandhana Kandhari, Child Protection Specialist at UNICEF, stressed the importance of family-based care over institutional care. She highlighted the need for comprehensive aftercare services, including mentoring, independent living, and access to education, healthcare, and jobs.
UNICEF has been instrumental in forming state and national care leaver networks. Kandhari emphasized state representation at the national level to improve policy advocacy and support, while calling for greater equity, gender inclusion, and data collection to protect marginalized children.
A Scalable Aftercare Model for Nationwide Impact
Gita Gopal, Co-Founder of A Future for Every Child (AFEC), outlined four key steps to improve aftercare services:
Accurate Data & Government Commitment: A national registry of care leavers, covering all care types, ensures better service delivery.
Stronger Partnerships: NGOs must align efforts, share best practices, and prioritize securing stable employment for two years.
Long-Term Mentorship: Sustained mentorship is crucial for employment, financial stability, and emotional well-being.
Advocacy & Funding: Raising awareness and driving policy change can unlock funding from government, CSR, and private donors.
She also stressed timely stipend disbursement, well-defined aftercare plans under the JJ Act, expanded housing, and policies for free tuition and job reservations.
Effective Aftercare Interventions for Success
Vipul Jain, Co-Founder of Catalysts for Social Action (CSA), shared CSA’s structured aftercare model supporting over 2,500 care leavers. It focuses on:
Mentorship & Guidance: Ensuring low dropout and high employment rates.
Employability: Providing education, skill development, and job placement.
Independent Living Skills: Teaching financial literacy and life skills.
Social & Professional Networks: Offering motivation and support.
CSA’s model has led to a 76% placement rate, competitive salaries, and a low dropout rate. Success stories like Vasuda, who pursued a Master’s in Social Work, and Ashish, who trained for the Indian Army, demonstrate its impact.
A Unified Path Forward
The Ahavaan Aftercare Conference reinforced the urgency of structured aftercare and the shared responsibility of NGOs, government, and corporate partners. Strengthening policies, increasing funding, and expanding mentorship programs will ensure smoother transitions to independent, fulfilling lives for care leavers.
