A learning session on Pre-Departure Orientation Training (PDOT) for the volunteers from different blocks of Balangir districts was organized on November 25, 2022, at Little Flower School of the district. The workshop was initiated, as a happy, safe, and prosperous temporary re-location of the seasonal workers, by Fr. Francis Bosco (Director, Don Bosco Migrant Services, Chennai).

Balangir district of Odisha is one of those KBK regions (Kalahandi-Balangir-Koraput) considered backward regions by the planning commission. This place is known for persistent crop failure, lack of access to basic amenities, starvation, malnutrition, and migration. As a result, a huge chunk of laborers migrates to Tamil Nadu for 6 months i.e., from December to May each year. Against this backdrop, keeping in mind the safety of this mass, the volunteers from Odisha came forward to conscientious them. Some staff members of Don Bosco Tech - Sambalpur, Odisha, along with the volunteers conducted PDOT.

Mr. Sarat Chandra Dash (Community Mobilizer) explained the importance of the session. How it is helpful to get be well-informed about the travel from and arrival to destinations wee explained. Further, the participants were briefed on the reasons for displacement and the kind of difficulties they are likely to face. In addition to that, they elaborated on different stages of migration, the recruitment process, and how an unorganized sector can mess up. If these people are not shrewd enough can get entangled in some unethical practices.

Mr. Sarda Prasad Nanda (Trainer, ITES) tried to address, issues related to migration, through demonstrations. The entire session was an interactive one wherein clips from the internet on the problems of migrant laborers from Odisha were also shared with the participants. Queries and feedback from participants were encouraged and well attended to.

The workshop session was concluded with positive remarks and feedback from all the participants and Fr. Bosco.