Pune recently became the focal point for a significant dialogue on corporate social responsibility and collaborative social impact. The Times Foundation, in partnership with the M3M Foundation, successfully organized the ISR Changemaker's Circle in the city. This high-level gathering brought together a diverse group of corporate leaders, CSR professionals, and representatives from non-governmental organizations.
A Confluence of Leaders for Social Good
The event was held at the scenic Lavasa campus of Christ University in Pune, which co-organized the programme along with Karadi Path. The assembly drew participants from across the nation, including Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Nashik, and Solapur, underscoring the wide-reaching interest in forging effective social partnerships.
Deepa Mudhol Munde, the Commissioner of the state Social Welfare Department, graced the occasion as the chief guest. Vijaykumar Chobe, the Tahsildar of Mulshi, was present as the guest of honour. Their participation highlighted the crucial link between government initiatives and private sector CSR efforts.
Emphasizing Action and Critical Thinking
In her address to the attendees, Commissioner Mudhol Munde provided valuable perspectives on social welfare, blending practical insights with policy-level understanding to drive tangible change. The event's keynote addresses were delivered by prominent figures:
- Dr Fr Lijo Thomas, Dean and Director of Christ University.
- Dr Aishwarya Mahajan, President of the M3M Foundation.
- Dr C P Viswanath, CEO of Karadi Path Education Company.
A central theme echoed by the speakers was the power of collaboration and the need for CSR initiatives that are firmly action-oriented. A strong emphasis was placed on nurturing critical thinking as an essential skill for children and young adults, preparing them for future challenges.
Bridging the Gap from Classroom to Career
The forum's discussions revolved around the theme 'Think Critically, Act Effectively'. A particularly engaging panel discussion focused on 'Classroom to Career', addressing the persistent gaps between education systems and employability requirements. This panel featured insights from a wide array of experts:
- Leena Rajan
- Dr Ameet Singh
- Ramanuj Choubey
- Sathya Natrajan
- Dr Michelle Philip
- Tarun Joshi
- Rishi Raj Bhagwat
- Advocate Ameya Deshpande
- Yogesh Kautik Patil Gurjar
- Shrutika Mungi
Dr Parameshwaran S, Associate Dean at Christ University's Lavasa campus, formally concluded the proceedings with a vote of thanks.
Networking and Future Collaborations
Beyond the structured discussions, the event served as a dynamic platform for professional networking. Government officials, CSR leaders, and NGO representatives engaged in direct dialogue, exploring concrete opportunities for future partnerships. The Times Foundation announced plans to host more such impactful engagements under its ongoing Changemaker's Series, signaling a sustained commitment to fostering a culture of strategic social investment and collaborative problem-solving in India.
