Nehu develops dual-language app for safety of maids

Shillong: The nanotechnology department at North-Eastern Hill University (Nehu), in partnership with IIT-Bhillai, conducted an outreach programme to introduce ‘Maidful', a dual-language application in Khasi and English. The event, held on the Nehu campus on Tuesday, launched this IBITF-funded project designed to create safe and transparent employment opportunities for domestic workers.
The programme's primary objective was to present the application to relevant parties and ensure its reach to intended users.
The project's principal investigator, Davidson Pyngrope, discussed the difficulties domestic workers face in securing appropriate employment and fair compensation. He explained that ‘Maidful' would serve as a solution by offering a protected and organised employment system. "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," he said.
The 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."
The Dean of School of Technology at Nehu, Md Iftekhar Hussain, noted the application's timeliness as digital solutions become essential. "Since most people now own mobile phones, it is essential to make the app easily accessible," he said.