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When you visit your relatives or friends in posh colonies in Mumbai next time, a real surprise awaits you. While the door opens, don't get surprised by the language the domestic helps speak. Most probably, you will be greeted by the domestic help in Queen's English.
It is no magic, but thanks to the initiative of the Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University (YCMOU) in Mumbai which has decided to start a course in conversational English for domestic helps.
The idea of starting a course in conversational English for domestic helps was mooted by an organisation called Osari, which works for the rights of domestic helps. Osari mooted the idea as it realized that domestic helps are largely employed by the upwardly mobile, urban class for which English is increasingly becoming the only spoken language. They felt that if the domestic helps have to hold their own in this rapidly changing environment, learning English will help.
The course will teach them not only English but also social etiquette and manners. It will train them in dealing with telephone calls or guests when the employers are not home. There are also plans to teach them to identify items like vinegar and white sauce, and to operate microwave ovens.
Monday. We will look at the need and then decide."
