Events

The Social Leadership Development Program (SLDP) 2024 at MIT World Peace University was a compelling three-day event held from August 12th to 14th, dedicated to nurturing the next generation of social leaders. This program aimed to equip first-year students with the skills and insights necessary to drive meaningful change in their communities and beyond. The event brought together a distinguished group of speakers from various fields who shared their experiences and inspired the students to embrace social leadership.

The program was graced by Shri. Alok Shukla, a recipient of the prestigious Goldman Environmental Award, often referred to as the "Green Nobel." His insights into environmental activism set the tone for the event, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and community-driven change. Joining him was Shri. Ajay Pratap, the Sarpanch of Kohrawas, MP, and Ms. Lakshika Dagar, the youngest lady Sarpanch of Chintaman Jawasiya Gram Panchayat, MP. Their stories of grassroots leadership highlighted the power of local governance in fostering sustainable development.

Key university figures also played a crucial role in the success of the event. Prof. Dr. R. M. Chitnis, Vice Chancellor, Dr. Sanjay Kamtekar, Chief Academic Officer, and Dr. Ganesh Kakandikar, Associate Dean (Ext. Relations) and Convenor of SLDP 2024, were present throughout the ceremony, providing invaluable support and guidance. Their presence underscored the university's commitment to fostering social leadership among its students.

Ms. Sarita Gakhare, the former President of Zilla Parishad, Wardha, and Mr. Pravin Nikam, the founder of Samata Center, further enriched the discussions by sharing their experiences in social activism and community mobilization. Mr. Ashok Deshmane, the founder of Snehawan, spoke passionately about his work in providing care and support to children affected by farmer suicides, underlining the need for empathy and compassion in leadership.

The program also featured significant contributions from experts in sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation. Mr. Jacob Nellithanam, an organic farming trainer with Beej Swaraj Manch, and Mr. Mohan Borah, the founder of Annapurna Rice Library, shared their innovative approaches to promoting food security and sustainable agriculture. Their work in connecting farmers with sustainable practices resonated deeply with the audience.

Environmental leadership was further explored by Mr. Sanjay Gubbi, Programme Head at Holematthi Nature Foundation, and Mr. Anirudh Chaoji of Ran Mangli Foundation. Their sessions emphasized the critical role of youth in driving environmental change and the importance of preserving biodiversity. Vellore C. Srinivasan, Project Director at Indian Green Service, discussed the intersection of entrepreneurship and social innovation, highlighting how business can be a powerful force for social good.

Creative expression as a tool for social impact was brought to the forefront by Mr. Sidhharth Kak, an acclaimed Indian documentary maker, and Girish Kulkarni, an Indian actor and producer. Their insights into storytelling and the arts demonstrated how cultural mediums can effectively communicate social messages and inspire change.

The event concluded with powerful sessions led by Ms. Shailaja Deshpande, Founder-Director of Jeevitnadi, and Mr. Pere Patil, former Sarpanch of Patoda Gram Panchayat, who discussed the importance of building eco-resilient cities and sustainable urban practices. Mr. Pasha Patel, President of the Phoenix Foundation, also contributed valuable perspectives on environmental stewardship.

The program was further enriched by the participation of young activists such as Ms. Licypriya Kangujam, the youngest climate and environment activist from Manipur, and Ms. Diksha Dinde, a disability justice advocate. Their talks emphasized the importance of youth engagement in social leadership and the need for inclusivity in all spheres of life. The entrepreneurial spirit was represented by Ms. Nava Shah, founder of 'Jamkle Jars' in Srinagar, and Ms. Bijayshanti Tongbram, an artisan specializing in Lotus Fiber Silk from Manipur, who showcased how local businesses can drive social transformation.

The SLDP 2024 was a resounding success, culminating in the presence of Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, Hon'ble Governor of Maharashtra, and Major General Vikram Dev Dogra, AVSM, who provided the closing remarks. Their words of encouragement and wisdom left a lasting impact on the students, reinforcing the importance of leadership, service, and resilience in shaping a better future.

This event successfully embodied the spirit of #WeTheChangeMakers, inspiring students to become ambassadors of hope, innovation, and social change. Through the diverse perspectives of the esteemed speakers and the support of university leaders, students were empowered to take on the challenges of the world with confidence and a commitment to making a positive difference.