SHILLONG, Feb 11: Local housemaids from in and around NEHU campus area were introduced to a mobile application called “Maidful”, a bilingual platform in Khasi and English, that helps facilitate employment opportunities for housemaids in a safe, efficient, and transparent manner. This occurred during an outreach programme on ‘Sensitisation of App Connecting Housemaids with Prospective Employers’ held at the university on Tuesday.
Organised by the Department of Nanotechnology, North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) in collaboration with IIT Bhillai, the programme witnessed the participation of 40 housemaids from villages around the NEHU campus, along with faculty members, project associates, and other stakeholders.
The app is developed under the IBITF-funded project.
The event was graced by Prof Nirmalendu Saha, Vice-Chancellor (I/C) of NEHU, as the chief guest, while Longshai Nongkhlaw, Rangbah Shnong of Mawkynroh, and Prof Md. Iftekhar Hussain, Dean of School of Technology, NEHU, were the guests of honour.
The outreach workshop was organised by the development team led by Dr Davidson Pyngrope, Dr K Amitab, and Prof Md. Iftekhar Hussain, with project associates Skhembor Sohphoh and Iaineh Nongsiej. The initiative aimed to introduce the app to the stakeholders and ensure accessibility for the target audience.
Dr Davidson Pyngrope, the Principal Investigator of the project, in his address, highlighted the challenges faced by housemaids in finding suitable jobs and receiving fair wages. He emphasised that the Maidful app will help bridge this gap by providing a secure and structured employment platform.
The app ensures profile verification of both employers and housemaids, thus enhancing safety and transparency in the hiring process. It also allows employers to browse for domestic help based on their requirements.
Speaking at the event, Longshai Nongkhlaw, Rangbah Shnong of Mawkynroh, said, “The app connecting housemaids with prospective employers is more than just a technological innovation; it is a beacon of hope, dignity, and empowerment. This platform addresses a critical need, providing a safe and structured space for housemaids to find employment and for employers to find trustworthy and skilled professionals. It is a win-win solution that promotes mutual respect, understanding, and benefits.” Prof Md. Iftekhar Hussain, Co-PI of the project, emphasised that the app is timely and relevant, as digital solutions are becoming an integral part of daily life. He noted that since most people now own mobile phones, it is essential to make the app easily accessible. He also thanked Nongkhlaw for his support and encouraged continued collaboration in sensitizing housemaids about the app’s benefits.
NEHU VC in-charge Prof Saha commended the development team for their society-driven research initiative. He remarked, “This app is a one-of-a-kind initiative that truly serves the society. Research and education should aim to uplift communities, and this project is a perfect example of that mission. The informal sector, particularly domestic workers, forms the backbone of our economy, yet they often face challenges such as job insecurity and lack of fair wages. This bilingual app is a groundbreaking initiative that provides a structured, transparent, and secure employment mechanism. I applaud the efforts of the faculty, researchers, and developers who have worked tirelessly to bring this project to life.”
The Maidful app is expected to significantly impact the domestic employment sector by ensuring job security, fair wages, and digital inclusion. By enabling users to navigate the platform in Khasi, the development team has ensured that language is not a barrier to employment opportunities.
The workshop concluded with an interactive session where housemaids shared their experiences and concerns, providing valuable feedback to further refine the app for better usability and impact. NEHU looks forward to continued engagement with the local community to ensure the successful implementation of Maidful in the region.
