Introduction:

Women have been the pillars of strength in the realm of the social sector. Dr. Kiran Bedi, Aruna Roy, and Sudha Murthy are just a few of them who have led initiatives throughout the country and brought forth transformative change in society. However, their journey has not been simple. It is marked by both challenges and triumphs. This blog will delve into this landscape, shedding light on their pivotal role in social work, the obstacles they have encountered, and how they achieved progress in society.

The Crucial Role of Women in the Social Sector:

Women have always played a critical role in society, whether it be in families, raising children, health, education, community building, politics, or the social sector. Working for causes such as education, gender equality, healthcare, and community development, women have been natural leaders in social work practice due to their innate soft skills, such as empathy, resilience, and commitment to the cause. Women have driven several initiatives that address complex social issues, such as the upliftment of marginalised communities, by working at the grassroots level and advocating policy changes benefiting the people directly.

Challenges Faced by Women in the Social Sector:

Nevertheless, there are several barriers that women face in the field of social sector preventing them from advancing their careers. Gender prejudice and discrimination in society have hampered women from holding leadership, and decision-making positions. The burden of juggling job and family obligations only makes this worse. It is also observed that caregiving responsibilities are mostly given to women rather than management tasks. Lack of institutional support, funding constraints, and inadequate resources also exacerbate the struggles of women in the social sector..

Navigating the Complexities of Social Work Practice with Women:

Women are generally frontline workers in the social sector. They provide essential services and support the vulnerable populations. Their work has been fostering positive change, such as empowering women through skill-building programs, advocating for women’s rights, and counselling survivors of domestic violence. However, cultural norms that perpetuate gender inequality and inhibit women’s agency are barriers that women have had to navigate to advance in the social sector.. Women can challenge this existing power structure and promote inclusivity and social justice by adopting a feminist approach to social work practice.

Celebrating Triumphs and Resilience:

Despite facing a myriad of challenges, women in the social sector have achieved remarkable triumphs and created a lasting impact.. Their strong drive to bring meaningful change has inspired others through resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment. Women have played diverse roles in advancing the goals of the social sector, from grassroots organisers and community leaders to policymakers and advocates. Their contribution is essential in building resilient communities and encouraging a more equitable and inclusive society. There have been countless women leaders in the social sector, but some of them have helped millions prosper through their work.

1. Aruna Roy: She has led the charge in efforts for the rights of underprivileged and marginalised groups. Additionally, she served as the spokesperson for the 2005 Right to Information Act, which was approved by the Indian parliament. Having worked strenuously for the people over the years, she is the president of the National Federation of Indian Women and the founder of Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan.
2. Dr. Kiran Bedi: She is the first Indian and the first woman to be appointed as the head of the United Nations Police and the United Nations Department of Peace Operations. She is the founder of Navjyoti India Foundation, which addresses drug abuse issues in various parts of Delhi. She also set up the India Vision Foundation in 1994, working in the field of police reforms, women empowerment, and rural and community development.
3. Rohini Nilekani: She is the founder of Araghyam, a non-profit organisation that focuses on water and sanitation issues, and she also chairs the Akshara foundation which works on providing primary education to all. A philanthropist by nature, she is the chairperson of Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies.
4. Sudha Murthy: She is the chairperson of the Infosys foundation which contributes through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Infosys foundation has built over 2300 houses in flood-affected areas of the country as well as contributing to building libraries and sanitation facilities. She also works for rural empowerment and upliftment of women.

The Role of Education and Training in Empowering Women in the Social Sector:

Education and training play an important role in empowering women in the social sector. Courses such as the Post Graduate Program in Development Management (PGP-DM) from ISDM not only provide comprehensive training to women but also equip them with policy analysis, leadership skills, knowledge, and tools to address complex societal changes effectively.. Moreover, to foster gender equality in the social sector, it is essential to promote initiatives that encourage women’s participation in decision-making processes and the development of women in this field. Women in the social sector have been inspiring others through mentorship activities such as webinars, talks, and displays of work on various social platforms. This not only encourages other women to pursue a career in social work but also promotes the social sector.

Creating a Supportive Ecosystem for Women in Social Work:

Creating an ecosystem that addresses the unique needs and challenges of women is imperative to truly harness their potential in the social sector.. This ecosystem is largely created by developing venues where women's perspectives are respected and heard, by offering networking and mentoring opportunities, and by advocating for gender-responsive policy. Destroying obstacles and paving the way for women to succeed in the social sector also requires funding the advancement of women leaders and promoting gender-inclusive policies. Diversity plays a major role in this context; bringing varied opinions and perspectives into the culture helps organisations make better-informed decisions regarding issues that they face. It also fosters innovation and creates an inclusive ecosystem for everyone to share their thoughts and visions.

Conclusion:

Women are an indispensable part of the social sector, driving change and advancing social justice. Despite the difficulties, their tenacity, will, and dedication to improving communities worldwide serve as an example to all. By tackling systemic hurdles, supporting gender equality, and investing in women's education and leadership development, we can create a more fair and inclusive social sector where women's contributions are acknowledged, recognised, and celebrated.

Published: 06 February, 2024

CXOToday recently conducted an exclusive interview with Ravi Sreedharan, Founder and President of the Indian School of Development Management. The interview focused on the Centre for Data Science and Social Impact (CDSSI), shedding light on the centre’s vision and initiatives. CDSSI aims to revolutionize the social sector's approach to data by empowering Social Purpose Organizations (SPOs) to leverage the power of data science for greater and sustained impact.

The primary objective of CDSSI is to catalyze a transformative shift in how SPOs approach data, advocating for and raising awareness about the potential of data science. Through various initiatives, CDSSI plans to equip SPOs with the tools, infrastructure, and technology needed for effective data-driven decision-making. This includes the development of diagnostic tools, operating frameworks, and training modules to navigate the evolving landscape of data science.

Unlike focusing on developing analytical models, CDSSI aims to showcase possibilities through examples and use cases, emphasizing timely and relevant data utilization. The organization is also establishing a Knowledge Institute to curate large-scale data across Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), providing SPOs with accessible, high-quality information and data management tools.

Ravi highlighted the transformative opportunities presented by AI and ML in addressing pressing social issues in India, such as public health, skilling, agriculture, and gender equality. By advocating for the creation and dissemination of solutions, CDSSI aims to catalyze data science for social impact.

Ensuring active engagement and tangible benefits for the social purpose ecosystem is a core commitment for CDSSI. The organization plans to achieve this through research, convenings, collaboration, conversations, and workshops. CDSSI also emphasizes building communities of practice within the social purpose ecosystem, advancing the data maturity of organizations.

Recognizing the interdisciplinary nature of data science, CDSSI collaborates with experts from various fields to address complex social issues. The organization advocates for an interdisciplinary approach that bridges data scientists, social scientists, and other relevant experts. This collaborative ethos extends to CDSSI's internal strategy, engaging experts across social purpose leaders, academics, data scientists, and social scientists.

Looking ahead, CDSSI aims to expand its influence globally by evangelizing cutting-edge technologies, researching emerging trends, and sharing insights. The organization aspires to become a pivotal hub for developing impactful data science and analytics models for social change. With a dedication to continuous knowledge creation and dissemination, CDSSI seeks to lead conversations, shape practices, and drive the adoption of data and data science in the Indian development sector, contributing significantly to a data-driven ecosystem.

Read the full interview here

by Mridul Upadhyay | Published: 02 January , 2024

The Driving Force for India's Future

In the vast landscape of India's societal evolution, the role of millennials stands as a pivotal force that can shape the future trajectory, especially in critical sectors like education, philanthropy, healthcare, livelihood, and women empowerment. The question that echoes is whether this burgeoning population of millennials can constitute an efficient and effective workforce capable of executing the ambitious roadmap laid out for a nation of 130 Crore individuals. The answer lies in recognizing the unique positioning of millennials, both externally in their developmental stage and internally in their capacity to contribute meaningfully to societal goals.

Embracing the Era of Possibilities

Unlike the generations before us, millennials are not constrained by the sole objective of survival. The prevailing notion of insecurity, perpetuated by societal norms, is a falsehood that seeks to limit our potential. Instead, we find ourselves in an era where the pursuit of basic living standards and human rights for all is a tangible goal. This shift in perspective allows us to explore careers that not only offer financial stability but also a profound sense of contribution to a greater purpose. As the perception of security takes root in our lives, the preference for a meaningful career becomes the norm.

Passion as the Driving Force

In the realm of achieving extraordinary feats, it's the passionate individuals who leave an indelible mark. The adage, "whatever was easy to do has already been taken up and done, only the hard one is left," holds true. Passion fuels the relentless pursuit of knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary for significant accomplishments. Millennials, armed with passion, possess the potential to bring about transformative change, provided they receive the right guidance and exposure to essential elements like knowledge, skills, attitude, and values.

A Critical Examination

While the passion of the millennial workforce is undeniable, the question arises: Are they receiving adequate guidance? A critical examination of the National Youth Policy 2014, a comprehensive document addressing 600 million young people in India, reveals an imbalance. The policy emphasizes education, skills, and employment extensively, with 106, 72, and 46 references, respectively. Surprisingly, the term 'Harmony' garners a mere five mentions, and 'peace' receives zero acknowledgment throughout the document. This raises concerns about the guidance provided to the youth and the priorities set for their holistic development.

The Need for Specialized Institutions

In addressing these concerns, we must ponder whether institutions dedicated to the development sector, comparable to the prestigious IIMs, exist. If they do, why haven't issues like the aforementioned policy gaps been raised? The absence of a robust approach in guiding the nation's 600 million youth for the past five years demands a shift toward systems thinking, reflective practices, and a visionary approach. This shift is crucial to providing the right direction, training, and leadership development to the youth, steering clear of negative unintended consequences.

The Role of Specialized Academic Institutions

The need of the hour is academic institutions as formidable as IIMs but exclusively dedicated to social sector leadership and workforce development. These institutions should instill a systems thinking approach, emphasize reflective practices, and nurture visionary leaders capable of addressing societal challenges at their roots. The curriculum must go beyond traditional management teachings, fostering a passion for meaningful change and providing a practical approach to turn that passion into optimal impact.

Human Rights and Collective Responsibility

Delving into the wisdom embedded in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), particularly Article 29, underscores the importance of duties to the community for the free and full development of one's personality. The interconnectedness highlighted by phrases like "human family" and "spirit of brotherhood" emphasizes our collective responsibility toward each other. As free and equal beings, we are born with the inherent ability to distinguish right from wrong and should act toward others in a spirit of friendliness. These principles serve as compelling reasons for the youth to actively contribute to the well-being of their motherland.

Nurturing Change for a Better Tomorrow

Our peace and happiness are intertwined with the collective experiences of those around us. The lack of a viable alternative to our motherland and the inaccessibility of habitable spaces like Mars and the Moon underscore the need to address issues at home. The imperative lies in proving that despite sharing genes, we can break free from harmful habits that have led to adverse situations. This pursuit is not merely for personal gain but to craft a narrative of positive change to share with future generations. It is our chance to face the future with pride, having contributed meaningfully, rather than succumbing to the guilt of inaction.

Bhagat Singh's Legacy: A Call to Action

As we reflect on our purpose at the age of 25, 30, or 32, Bhagat Singh's legacy serves as a poignant reminder. A 22-23 year young revolutionary, he wasn't mad; he was driven by a profound sense of purpose. Now, as individuals in our mid-twenties and beyond, we must ask ourselves: What do we have in our lives to be proud of, or what are we working towards? The answers lie in our ability to contribute meaningfully, to realize India's potential for positive transformation.

Concluding Thoughts: ISDM and the Path Forward

In concluding this exploration, the relevance of the Indian School of Development Management (ISDM) becomes evident. ISDM stands as a beacon of hope, illuminating paths for socially conscious leaders who understand the nuanced complexities of societal challenges. By shaping change agents capable of dismantling systems that perpetuate injustice, ISDM plays a vital role in the collective journey toward realizing India's true potential. As we navigate the future, let ISDM be the guiding light that empowers individuals to contribute meaningfully, creating a future where every citizen is treated with dignity and equality.

While there may be numerous ways of bringing up children out there in the world, there’s one irrefutable, universally-accepted fact about parenting – it’s tough. Funnily, the night-outs, the constant worrying, the trips to the doctor, the never-ending negotiations (give and take on every possible thing under the sun) are not the toughest parts – character-building is.

We want our children to grow up to be adults with good judgement, the ability to tell right from wrong, people who can earn and give respect, etc.  But none of this can be achieved through the moral science lectures at school or home – which are, at best, cognitive engagements for our children.  The only method or process which has the faintest hope of doing the trick is our ability to model these behaviours, to back words with action – and, to use a cliched term, our ability to really ‘walk the talk’. Being a parent really forces you to look internally, reflect on who you are (as an individual) – and motivates you to iron out the creases and keep improving yourself, because children can be really merciless in pointing out any discrepancies between speech and action!

Being involved in the social development sector brings to you a similar motivation and experience – not because you need to practice before you preach (how boring is that!), but because you get to see so much of the real world and its issues that you are left humbled and grateful.

Working in the sector has forced me to rethink my behaviour, beliefs and attitudes on multiple areas. It’s not that I’ve suddenly transformed overnight to become a saint! I am still the same individual as I was – flawed in bits, remarkable in bits – but possibly, just more aware, and at the very least, moving in the right direction.

This awareness comes from many different sources, in multiple different areas. Working with women, specially from the under-served segments of society, brings forth a lot of our inherent biases on gender stereotypes and roles. For instance, ask people for names of drivers and hair-dressers and see the general response! While we can legislate to make women sarpanches, how do we ensure that the real power does not lie with the husband, father or brother? Where do we draw the line in cracking sexist jokes under the guise of meaningless humour?

It also makes us more aware of the systemic bias against the girl child (“who gets the only glass of milk, who gets to go to the better school, who eats last in the house?”). Seeing instances of people walking miles for drinking water every day or living and studying in the near absence of electricity, hopefully drives us to use our abundant resources more judiciously and with care.

Instances of people dying of hunger even in this modern age (with laws like the Right to Food) should drive us to discourage wastage of food by anyone in the family, to learn to order only what we can eat when we go out, and to not throw away food as far as possible. Spending time with people drives home the point that, in essence, we are all the same – there are more similarities amongst us than differences (similar dreams, desires, aspirations, etc.). Some of us are just born lucky, others not so.

Everyone deserves that basic amount of respect, irrespective of the vast number of parameters we use to discriminate among ourselves and against others (caste, religion, class, gender, color, etc.).

A friend once told me that she could not think of working in the development sector, because such realisations would cause too much emotional dissonance – thereby, reducing her ability to enjoy her life. On the contrary, these experiences possibly help us lead more grateful and more balanced lives.

While ignorance can be bliss, awareness could potentially lead to greater joy! One should think of joining this sector not for others, not for charity – but for what it can do for you in any of the roles you play in life, especially that of being a human!

A ‘professional’ is someone who is part of a profession. So, what really is a ‘profession’ – and why are some areas of work defined as ‘professions’ (lawyer, doctor, etc.) and others as ‘vocations’ (cobbler, carpenter, among others)?

Technically a ‘profession’ is an area of work which fulfils some of the following requirements:

1. It requires a fairly formal, time-taking and (typically) tough process of preparation (generally academic).
2. It is bound by a code of ethics created and enforced by people within the profession.
3. Knowledge building and subsequent innovation is done by people within the profession for the profession itself – and not by people from outside the profession.

Being part of a profession becomes aspirational, because it has a certain exclusivity to it – much like the social clubs and groups we engage with. I am part of a club because I am really good at something (music, theatre, rock climbing, etc.) – and that differentiates me from the others who are not part of the club. Not many would aspire to join a club that anyone can join!

This is one of the big reasons why bright young individuals don’t want to enter the realm of teaching. Teaching is one of the most complex professions which demands a unique combination of educational perspective, understanding of curriculum and pedagogy, subject matter knowledge and a large amount of patience! Yet, the process and criteria for becoming a teacher is ridiculously low.

The same holds true if one wants to be a ‘social worker’. While the term has a technical definition, in the current context, it has become an all-encompassing term for any and everyone associated with social development or the social workspace.

Even though this profession is considered noble, people harbour a lot of pre-conceptions and assumptions about the profession. Stereotypes associated with social work can be particularly frustrating and hilarious at the same time. Here are some of the comments which people have made to me regarding the profession:

All That’s Required To Enter The Social Space Is Good Intent And A Good Heart!

That’s as good as saying that my love for cars automatically makes me a good automobile engineer! Or if I love suing people, then I am a great lawyer!

Just like engineering and law, becoming a relevant social worker should include strong academic preparation in the fields of development studies, social work, public policy, development management and others. Each of these areas requires a lot of technical hardwork, if one wants to develop the relevant knowledge and skill-sets required to deliver sustainable social impact and progress for the nation.

My Desire For A More Relaxed, Balanced Life Is Driving Me To The Social Sector!

One of the biggest challenges in the social sector is that it brings you face to face with the realities of life. A friend once told me that she couldn’t imagine working in the sector because it’s so disturbing.

It is this reality which will drive you to work harder than you ever have. This is because you can see that, at some level, your work is helping to improve the lives of the underserved and the underprivileged. Sleepless nights, crazy adventures, physical fatigue, friends unheard of in unseen places and immense satisfaction – you should expect all of this (and more) in the social space! At a personal level, the social sector has demanded more from me than the corporate space.

Wow – You Must Be Such A Nice Human Being To Be Working In This Sector!

People everywhere have the same level of complexities, insecurities, strengths and failings.

In the corporate sector, if money is the prime motivator, you can build a fairly successful career by staying indifferent to your job. However, to stay in the social sector for a long time, a passion for social change and genuinely connecting with the people you are working with/for are necessary preconditions.

However, under no circumstance does this make one a saint. One should choose to work in this space only if they really want to work here and the work gives them happiness. Reasons like guilt (‘we have got so much, we must give back’) and social power (‘if I won’t do it, who will’) are useful but not necessarily sustainable reasons to work in this sector.

If You Are A Social Worker, Why Do You Want Money? Isn’t Satisfaction Enough?

Just like anyone else, social workers also live in a social reality. Therefore, it is to be expected that they also have to deal with individual, family and social expectations, while having their own desires – and why shouldn’t they!

The choice of working on the toughest problems facing large sections of society is challenging enough. On top of that, why should a huge financial sacrifice be part of the initiation as well?

The complexity of issues that this sector faces is mindboggling. It really needs the brightest minds to come and work here. Therefore, we need to find ways of attracting the right talent, rather than trying hard to keep them away.

Many people have made a conscious choice of working in this sector for their personal reasons. This in turn reflects what they want to do and where they want to work. Hence, the choices of these people may not necessarily subscribe to the stereotypical notions mentioned above.

Just like we call people ‘banking sector professionals’ and ‘legal professionals’, can’t we just be called ‘development sector professionals’? It just has a much more pleasing and ‘professional’ ring to it!

It takes much more than just a simple desire to balance your life, if you want to participate in such activities.

Published: 04 January , 2024

In the dynamic world of India's social sector, achieving success goes beyond the basic desire to make a difference. It requires a combination of hard skills and essential soft skills. We present you with a listicle that breaks down these crucial soft skills and provides you with a checklist for mastering them.

1. The Power of Teamwork

Collaboration is the cornerstone of success in India's social sector. Unlike the corporate world, where solo endeavors are common, here, teamwork is non-negotiable. But it's not just about working together; it's about working effectively together. In a sector where diverse stakeholders come together, the ability to collaborate, communicate, actively listen, and understand various viewpoints is essential. It's teamwork, but with a social twist.

• Effective Communication

  In the social sector, being able to communicate clearly is pivotal. Effective communication ensures that your message is understood, reducing the risk of project roadblocks.

• Empathetic Engagement

  Empathy is key in understanding the perspectives of the people you serve. It allows you to connect on a deeper level, which is often vital for effective social impact.

2. Critical Thinking: Unraveling Complex Challenges

In the complex web of India's social sector, critical thinking is your compass. Many of the issues tackled in this field are interconnected and interdependent. To succeed, you must think critically, examining problems from multiple perspectives and using data, evidence, and accounts to arrive at holistic solutions. Critical thinking allows you to view situations neutrally and make well-informed decisions, an invaluable skill for NGOs and the development sector.

• Problem-Solving Prowess

  Critical thinking enables you to identify problems and develop creative solutions, a skill that is indispensable in tackling complex social issues.

• Data-Driven Decision-Making

  Making decisions based on reliable data ensures that your efforts are focused on strategies that are more likely to succeed.

3. Networking: Building Bridges for Change

Networking isn't just a buzzword; it's a superpower in the social sector. It opens doors to knowledge exchange, collaboration, and new opportunities. In India's vast and diverse landscape, professionals often work on similar issues in different regions. Networking bridges these geographical gaps, enabling the sharing of ideas and mutually beneficial conclusions.

• Knowledge Sharing

  Networking allows you to tap into the collective wisdom of your peers, helping you discover innovative approaches and best practices.

• Partnerships and Alliances

  Building a network of partners can expand your resources and enhance your capacity to drive meaningful change.

4. Thriving Under Pressure

The social sector in India often deals with sensitive issues and an overwhelming workload. But with the right approach, you can thrive under pressure. Social Purpose Organizations (SPOs) often provide a supportive community that helps mitigate the stress associated with job demands. Additionally, you can employ various stress management techniques to ensure you remain effective and resilient, no matter how challenging the circumstances may be.

• Stress-Reduction Strategies

  Learning to manage stress through techniques like mindfulness and time management can significantly improve your performance.

• Supportive Work Environment

  Being part of an organization that values work-life balance and offers support can be a game-changer for professionals in the social sector.

5. Willingness to Learn and Unlearn

The ability to learn and unlearn is the secret sauce of success in India's social sector. Learning new skills and concepts empowers you to adapt to evolving circumstances and excel in your role. But equally important is unlearning – the process of letting go of outdated or incorrect ideas. In this dynamic field, you may encounter concepts that challenge your existing beliefs. Embracing unlearning and relearning is crucial for staying adaptable and effective.

• Continuous Professional Development

  A commitment to ongoing learning ensures that you remain relevant in a field that constantly evolves.

• Adapting to Change

  Embracing new ideas and approaches can lead to groundbreaking innovations and solutions.

6. Cultivating Empathy

Empathy is a soft skill that can't be overlooked in the social sector. Understanding and sharing the feelings of those you serve is at the heart of creating meaningful change. Empathy allows you to connect with the people you aim to assist on a deeper level and truly make a difference.

• Client-Centered Approaches

  An empathetic approach helps you tailor your services to the unique needs and experiences of your clients.

• Building Trust

  Demonstrating empathy fosters trust, which is essential in a sector where trust can be the difference between success and failure.

In the realm of India's social sector, success is not solely about good intentions; it's about mastering the essential soft skills. This checklist of soft skills—teamwork, communication, critical thinking, networking, thriving under pressure, a willingness to learn and unlearn, and cultivating empathy—is your roadmap to making a profound impact. Embrace these skills, and you'll be well on your way to becoming a changemaker in India's social sector. Whether you're just starting your career in the social sector or seeking to enhance your current role, this checklist will guide you toward the success you desire.

What are the soft skills for social workers?

• Soft skills for social workers include teamwork, effective communication, critical thinking, networking, ability to work under pressure, and a willingness to learn and unlearn. These skills are crucial for success in the social sector in the social sector, where collaboration, empathy, and adaptability are paramount.

What skills do you need to work in the development sector?

• To excel in the development sector, a combination of hard skills (project management, fundraising) and soft skills (teamwork, communication, critical thinking) is essential for effective development management and leadership.

How do I start a career in social work?

• Acquiring a blend of hard and soft skills is key to starting a social work career. ISDM’s Post Graduate Program in Development Management offers a comprehensive curriculum and practical learning experiences, fostering essential skills for success in the field. More details at ISDM's Program.