The social sector in India has undergone a significant transformation over the last few years, offering diverse and exciting career opportunities to individuals from various backgrounds. Whether you are a student or someone with prior work experience, the social sector presents numerous intriguing job roles that go beyond mere financial success. This article will shed light on the evolving landscape of the social sector and how pursuing a career in this field can bring not only professional success but also personal fulfillment.
Recent studies have highlighted the changing perspective of millennials when it comes to their careers. Four key factors have emerged as crucial elements that make a job fulfilling for this generation:
This shift from a sole focus on financial success to a desire for fulfillment and purpose is evident among Gen Z job-seekers as well. They are more inclined to seek roles that align with their values and offer opportunities for creativity and innovation.
Why is the social sector the top career choice today?
The social sector is now the ideal destination for those who crave meaning and purpose in their work. Young professionals are choosing roles that allow them to pursue a higher purpose through innovative ideas and creative solutions. This shift is a reflection of changing philosophies and mindsets, which have also led to the development of educational courses that train individuals to become catalysts for enduring change.
If you are considering a career in the social sector in India, now is the perfect time to take the plunge. By enrolling in a Post-Graduate Course in Development Management at the Indian School of Development Management (ISDM), you can equip yourself with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in this field.
A successful career in the social sector demands not only passion and dedication but also the right training and education. Traditional development administration principles are no longer sufficient. The sector requires an agile and customized approach to address complex situations effectively. The Post Graduate Program in Development Management offered by ISDM is designed to train individuals to become global change-makers.
While development often revolves around economic growth and social and political ambitions, Development Management goes a step further. It focuses on a continuous process that assesses societal development to increase productivity and achieve economic and social freedom. Rather than being project-based, it adopts a process-based management system to eliminate stagnation in public service systems.
Today, India's social sector comprises not only grassroots NGOs but also a diverse mix of civil society organizations, social entrepreneurs, technologists, activists, donors, philanthropists, policy-makers, researchers, academics, and scientists. This diverse ecosystem requires leaders and managers who can cater to the sector's specific needs.
Insights from Mr. Ravi Sreedharan, Co-founder of ISDM
In a TED talk, Mr. Ravi Sreedharan shares his journey of transitioning from a 24-year corporate career to the social sector. With an MBA from IIM Ahmedabad and a B. Tech. from IIT-BHU, he offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the social sector.
Indian School of Development Management (ISDM) stands as a pioneering institution built on collective wisdom and philanthropy. ISDM has established itself as a symbol of excellence, dedicated to training individuals to become future change-makers. Its unique curriculum and pedagogy are tailored to the needs of students aspiring to excel in Development Management.
The Post Graduate Program in Development Management is a groundbreaking initiative globally, blending development principles with management theories. This program is ISDM's flagship offering, meticulously designed by leading academicians and practitioners.
The program aims to produce committed management professionals capable of navigating non-linear complexities, diverse geographies, and cultures. Graduates are prepared to tackle the complex challenges of social change, design effective interventions, and lead organizations toward sustainable social impact.
Shreya Verma PGP DM, Class of 2019
Before joining ISDM, Shreya was a graduate and a fresher. After completing the PGP DM program, she secured a position with the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, as the State Coordinator for Jammu & Kashmir.
Read her story: https://www.isdm.org.in/alumni/shreya-verma
Rajneesh Kumar Vishwakarma PGP DM, Class of 2022
Rajneesh Kumar Vishwakarma, a PGP DM graduate from the 2022 batch, has built a diverse career spanning entrepreneurship and leadership roles. With a background in Climate Change and Sustainability Studies from TISS, he founded Banaras Kitchen Corner before transitioning to the development sector. Currently, he is a Project Lead at Srijan, contributing to impactful initiatives in the space.
Read his story: https://www.isdm.org.in/alumni/rajneesh-kumar-vishwakarma
Defying Myths: Many ISDM students are breaking the myth that you can only enter the social sector immediately after college and that certain educational backgrounds are prerequisites for success in this field.
ISDM graduates have the opportunity to explore a wide range of roles and organizations in the social sector. Here are some examples of career paths chosen by our alumni:
The Post Graduate Program in Development Management equips students with the knowledge and skills to excel in various roles within the social sector, including:
In a rapidly evolving social sector, purpose and fulfillment drive meaningful careers. ISDM's Post Graduate Program in Development Management offers the tools and knowledge to become a catalyst for change. With its innovative curriculum, experienced faculty, and strong placement networks, ISDM is your gateway to a rewarding, impact-driven career.
Placements at ISDM
Enroll in ISDM's Post Graduate Program in Development Management—a globally unique initiative blending development with management theories, preparing you for impactful roles in NGOs, CSR, and social research organizations.
The evolving job landscape prioritizes fulfillment, purpose, and meaningful impact. ISDM's program aligns with these values, training individuals to be enduring catalysts for change in the social sector.
The social sector in India includes diverse opportunities in NGOs, foundations, CSR initiatives, and social research organizations, addressing crucial societal challenges.
The social sector is vital for addressing societal issues and providing opportunities for professionals to make a meaningful impact. ISDM's program ensures the best training for success in this impactful sector.
Yes, many professionals successfully shift from corporate roles to the social sector. Skills like leadership, strategy, and problem-solving are highly valuable. ISDM’s PGP DM program equips professionals with the right training to navigate this transition seamlessly.
A successful career in the social sector requires Design Thinking, Systems Thinking, Behavioural Change Communication, Data Management, Data Science, Talent Management for Social Impact, Fundraising, and Social Entrepreneurship to drive meaningful and sustainable change.
Growth comes from specialized education, hands-on experience, and networking. Enrolling in programs like ISDM’s PGP DM, taking leadership roles, and working with diverse stakeholders can accelerate career progression in the sector.
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