Community Engagement Initiative
On August 24, 2024, Dr Amalen du Jyotishi and Dr Nazarul Haque from Azim Premji University gave an engaging guest lecture on Community Engagement Initiative (CEI). They shared how CEI uses creative methods to build strong links between universities and local communities. Through examples and best practices, they showed how community engagement can improve education and tackle important social issues. They made us aware about how universities can help to drive positive change by working closely with communities.
Professor Amalen du Jyotishi specialises in natural resource management, legal pluralism, and urban food security. He has authored two books and 35 research papers.He has worked with groups like the World Bank and Oxfam and has held important roles in the Asian Initiative on Legal Pluralism and the Indian Society for Ecological Economics. Besides his academic work, he advises the online magazine Re-View and is also a published poet.
Mr. Nazrul Haque specializes in skill development, employment, and community projects. He holds a Master’s in Development from Azim Premji University and has a background in chemistry and research. He has taught vocational education, mentors the Social Enterprise Cell, and leads community engagement in local panchayats. He also hosts the show ‘Stories of Change’ and co-wrote a report on the challenges faced by social sector organizations during the Covid-19 crisis.
Dr Nazrul Haque and Dr Amalen du Jyotishi started their lecture by introducing the Azim Premji Foundation and sharing a bit about Azim Premji’s early life. They explained how Wipro began and mentioned that Azim Premji was recognized as wealthy around 1998-1999.
Dr Nazrul Haque and Dr Amalen du Jyotishi’s lecture focused on the Community Engagement Initiative (CEI) at Azim Premji University. They covered several key areas Community Introduction and Approach- they aim to educate nearby villages, create opportunities, and promote harmony by sharing knowledge and resources. Strengthening Local Democracy -they work with local panchayats to improve governance and democratic processes.Towards Zero Waste Panchayat -they are working with the Hasiru Dala Foundation to help create a zero-waste panchayat in Anekal Taluk. Entitlement- they conduct surveys to help identify families eligible for government schemes. Working with Farmers They encourage farmers to sell their produce on campus, benefiting both farmers and the university community. Public Health-they focus on improving health in Sarjapura and Dommasandra towns. Self-Help Groups-they help form self-help groups to support social and economic needs. Community Youth They work on enhancing public schools and involving local youth Creation of Community Learning Centre – they engage students in volunteering to support community learning. Research and Documentation-they assist in creating micro-enterprises and waste management systems.
Dr Nazrul and Dr Jyotishi concluded by stressing the importance of these community engagement efforts and their positive impact on local areas.
