The session titled “Understanding Opportunities in the Social Sector Spaces for Working and Learning” was conducted on 24 November 2025 at the Department of Sociology. The

programme began at 9:50 a.m. with a warm welcome address delivered by Sena from III BA Sociology. The event was attended by both third-year undergraduate and postgraduate

students of the department.

The speaker initiated the session by asking thought-provoking questions related to everydayissues that gradually grow into larger social problems. This approach encouraged studentsto reflect critically on their surroundings and engage with social realities more deeply. He emphasized that effective solutions to these problems cannot be achieved by the government alone; instead, active and responsible citizen participation is essential in

bringing meaningful change.

A major portion of the session focused on the competencies necessary for working in the

social sector. The speaker outlined the diverse career pathways available and discussed

various professional roles within the field. He underscored the importance of developing a

broad and holistic perspective, explaining that understanding India’s challenges requires

substantial knowledge of its society, people, culture, public institutions, social structures, and government policies. He also highlighted examples of how other countries have addressed similar concerns, encouraging students to learn from global experiences.

The speaker elaborated on the wide range of opportunities in the social sector, categorised

across themes, roles, organisations, locations, target populations, and remuneration

patterns. He further explained the multiple entry pathways into the sector, motivating

students to explore avenues suited to their interests and skills.

Towards the conclusion of the session, the speaker provided insights into the work of the

Azim Premji Foundation. He spoke about its establishment, the development of academic and field-based disciplines, the Grants Programme that supports social sector

organisations, and several significant contributions made by the Foundation over the years.

The session concluded at 11:00 a.m. with a vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Shabnoor.