Skillsoft and SumTotal Receive Corporate Social Responsibility Award from Hyderabad Software Enterprises Association

Skillsoft and SumTotal Systems were recognized by the Hyderabad Software Enterprises Association during its 3^rd Annual CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) Summit and Awards. The awards recognize innovative and ground-breaking initiatives in education and environment sustainability by member companies. Skillsoft and SumTotal received a Special Jury Recognition Award for their education initiatives.

 "We are honored to accept a Special Jury Recognition Award for our philanthropic initiatives in India,” said Chad Gaydos, Chief Operating Officer of the Skillsoft Group. “This accolade recognizes our commitment to supporting social causes through local programs aimed at developing women in the workplace and aiding underprivileged youth. The success and sustainability of our corporate social responsibility are due to defined program objectives, ownership, defined charters with monthly reviews along with internal awareness during various employee communication and engagement activities."

 One of the programs Skillsoft and SumTotal undertook in India during 2017 was to help a school with over 250 children address the challenges of health, hygiene and a low attendance rate. The companies created a schedule for employees to frequently engage with the children through interactive sessions that included storytelling, yoga, drawing, painting and crafts. Also, the employees held frequent sessions on best practices for health and hygiene as well as built washrooms along with a wash area in the school.

 Another important CSR program focused on skill development for women. Skillsoft and SumTotal partnered with the Sankalp Foundation and launched a pre-primary teacher training program for 52 women. The success of the program was due to Skillsoft and SumTotal’s contribution and commitment to identifying trainers, conducting skills development sessions and enabling the job placement process. This program has been a tremendous success as it enabled 44 out of 52 women to receive the Pre-& Primary Teacher Training Course certification and employment.

 The award selection was multi-tiered with shortlisting and then jury adjudication. Award winners were recognized at the HYSEA CSR Summit, which was themed “CSR – Taking IT beyond Urban, Partner, Support and Volunteer.”