Advancing Social Policy through Collaboration | GRAAM–RV University Joint Workshop
What happens when academic knowledge meets grassroots experience? It creates opportunities to bridge research, policy and action, fostering evidence-based solutions to complex social development challenges.
Taking a step towards this vision, Grassroots Research and Advocacy Movement (GRAAM) and RV University convened a joint workshop at the GRAAM office in Mysuru to advance the proposed Centre for SPARK – Social Policy, Action Research and Knowledge, a collaborative initiative between the two institutions.
The workshop focused on developing a shared vision and strategic roadmap for establishing the Centre, with discussions centred on its mission, objectives, thematic priorities and key milestones. Emphasis was placed on strengthening interdisciplinary research, knowledge generation and evidence-based social policy while creating meaningful connections between academia, research institutions and grassroots practitioners.
The discussions brought together distinguished representatives, including Prof. Ram Kumar Kakani, Vice Chancellor, RV University, Bengaluru; Prof. Dwarika Prasad Uniyal, Pro-Vice Chancellor, RV University, Mysuru; Prof. Madhvi Sethi, Dean, School of Economics & Business, RV University; and Dr. Basavaraju R. Shreshta, Executive Director, GRAAM, alongside members of both institutions.
The workshop marked an important step towards building a collaborative platform that translates research into actionable policy insights and connects institutional knowledge with real-world development priorities.
Key Takeaways:
Research–Policy Integration: Strengthening the connection between academic research, evidence-based policymaking and grassroots realities.
Collaborative Knowledge Generation: Bringing together academia and development practitioners to foster interdisciplinary research and actionable insights.
Institutional Roadmap: Defining strategic priorities, thematic areas and milestones for the establishment and development of the Centre for SPARK.
Moving Forward
How can academic institutions and grassroots organisations work together to make social policy more inclusive, responsive and impactful? The proposed Centre for SPARK seeks to advance this dialogue and create new opportunities for collaborative research and action.
GRAAM × RV University | Research • Policy • Action • Knowledge
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