SHILLONG: In a significant step towards holistic education and societal progress, a successful one-day capacity building workshop on the integration of social and behaviour change (SBC) modules into higher educational institutions curricula was conducted at the NEHU campus in Shillong on Tuesday.
The workshop drew distinguished participants from NEHU, Martin Luther University, ICFAI, National Institute of Fashion Technology, Union Christian College, and St. Edmund’s College.
Organised by the North East Social and Behaviour Change Alliance in collaboration with the Department of Journalism and Communication, NEHU, the workshop provided a platform to explore the transformative potential of incorporating SBC into higher education curricula.
Supported by UNICEF, the event aimed to harness the power of education for positive societal change.
Prof. Aparna Khanna, from Lady Irwin College, Delhi University, graced the workshop as the Chief Guest.
She highlighted how the communication for development (CoD) curriculum not only imparts crucial skills but also opens doors to limitless opportunities for positive change and collaboration on diverse development issues.
Prof. Khanna noted the growing adoption of SBC modules, citing successful integration in institutions such as the University of Hyderabad, Assam Don Bosco University, Mizoram University, Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya (Indore), Xavier Institute of Social Service (Ranchi), and Martin Luther University.
Suresh Parmar, SBC specialist from UNICEF Assam and Northeast, shared his experiences, ighlighting the role of impactful communication strategies in bringing about positive societal change in the region.
Prof. SM Sungoh, a senior professor in the Department of Education at NEHU, stressed the importance of a holistic approach, combining theoretical knowledge and behavioural influence.
She highlighted the responsibility of educators in fostering social change through effective communication. Prof. B Mishra echoed this sentiment, discussing the importance of integrating SBC into the curriculum.
Mitinam Siram, from the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication at NEHU, expressed gratitude to the organisers and participants for the success of the program.
She invited all participants to actualise the SBC modules into their respective curricula, fostering a positive wave of change. The workshop stands as a beacon of progress, showcasing the commitment of higher education institutions to nurture not only knowledgeable minds but also agents of positive societal transformation.
