The Youth for Governance Conclave 2024 was held on November 16, 2024, at the JSS School of Public Health. Organized by GRAAM in collaboration with the JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research and the Hanns Seidel Foundation, the event showcased the achievements of the Youth for Governance initiative and explored urban governance challenges and sustainable solutions.
The event commenced with a symbolic plant-watering ceremony led by dignitaries, including Dr. Praveen Kulkarni, Vice Principal and Professor of Community Medicine at JSS Medical College; Ms. Judith Weinberger Singh, Resident Representative of the Hanns Seidel Foundation India; and Dr. Basavaraju R. Shrestha, Executive Director of GRAAM. Their speeches underscored the importance of governance, sustainability, and youth engagement in addressing urban challenges.
Dr. Kulkarni emphasized prioritizing urban issues in policy-making for sustainable development and highlighted JSS’s global recognition for achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3. Ms. Singh spoke about youth participation as a cornerstone of democracy, stressing its role in fostering innovative solutions. Dr. Shrestha presented his vision for scaling the Youth for Governance initiative nationally, reflecting GRAAM’s commitment to empowering informed and responsible youth leaders.
The research presentations at the Youth for Governance Conclave 2024 underwent thorough evaluation by a distinguished panel of experts from diverse fields, who provided insightful feedback to enhance the quality of the work.
The studies on Exploring Community Perspectives on Water and Sanitation in Metgahalli Ward: A Participatory Approach and Exploring the Civic Infrastructure and Transportation of Metagalli Ward in Mysuru City were evaluated by Mr. Deepak K., President of the Mysore District Journalist Association, and Dr. Sadashiv Murthy B.M., Professor and Head, Department of Environmental Engineering, SJCE College.
Assessing the Health Service Landscape of Metagalli Ward, Mysuru City: A Qualitative Study was assessed by Dr. Mamata H.K., Associate Professor and Head, Department of Health System Management Studies, JSS AHER, and Dr. Vanitha Reddy P., Assistant Professor and Coordinator, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Life Sciences, JSS AHER.
A Qualitative Exploration of Skill Education and Livelihood Strategies in Metagalli Ward, Mysuru was reviewed by Dr. Bindu Thomas, Principal, Vidya Vikas Institute of Engineering and Technology.
The study on Exploring Community Perspectives on Social Justice and Inclusivity: A Participatory Approach was evaluated by Dr. Rakesh T.S., Principal, GSSS-SSGFC College, and Dr. Rajendra Prasad, Head of Community Consultation, GRAAM.
A vibrant poster session titled “My City, My Vision, and Contribution” allowed participants to creatively express ideas for urban development. The top three posters received recognition from the jury, which included experts from academia, media, and the Hanns Seidel Foundation.
The conclave concluded with a valedictory ceremony graced by distinguished guests, including Mr. Deepak K., President of the Mysore District Journalists Association; Mr. Srivatsa, MLA; and Dr. Shilpa D.M., In-Charge Coordinator at the JSS School of Public Health.
Mr. Deepak highlighted the progressive governance of Mysuru’s Maharajas, especially Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar, whose visionary leadership laid the foundation for Mysuru’s development. Mr. Srivatsa called for greater youth involvement in governance, commending the fellows for their grassroots-driven initiatives. Dr. Shilpa emphasized the critical role of public health in sustainable development and praised the collaborative efforts of GRAAM and JSS in empowering communities.
The Youth for Governance fellows were felicitated with certificates for their impactful contributions. Sharing their fellowship experiences, they highlighted the transformative journey of addressing governance challenges through research and engagement.
The event concluded with the National Anthem, symbolizing unity and a shared commitment to fostering positive change. The Youth for Governance Conclave 2024 served as a powerful platform to inspire youth leadership, promote innovative governance solutions, and strengthen collaborations for sustainable urban development.
