The 8th G20 University Connect program for North East India was organized by Assam University in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, Government Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS), New Delhi and North East Training and Research Advocacy (NETRA Foundation) was held on July 17, 2023 at Bipin Chandra Paul Seminar Hall, Assam University.
Around 400 students, faculty members, and non-teaching staff from various departments of Assam University participated in the program.
Dr.Pradosh Kiran Nath, Registrar, of Assam University delivered a welcome address. He has given an overview of the G20 program and talked about the role of India to offer solutions to contemporary problems. G20 is an opportunity to showcase India as the largest democracy in the world and will do a remarkable job to promote ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’.
Prof. M. Gangabhushan, the convener of the program, spoke about the principles that underpin the G20, emphasizing healing, harmony, and hope as guiding values. Revitalizing the earth is a very significant, how to bring different cultures together, promote the culture of respecting diversity and difference. He gave an overview of the lectures to be delivered by the dignitaries present at the event.
The Cabinet Minister Parimal Suklabaidya delivered a speech on the importance of the G20 and its role in addressing global challenges and fostering international cooperation. This gives a platform to discuss, debate and deliberate upon what we lost and what we gained. We should think and act about the future of our young generation. We have destroyed our nature like anything and this is the time to introspect for rejuvenating our environment. We should not only confine to thinking but also act accordingly to realize ‘Vasudheiva Kutumbakam’.
Prof. Rajive Mohan Pant, Vice-Chancellor of Assam University addressed the audience, highlighting the significance of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the importance of climate action within the G20 framework. He emphasized that education is an important tool to channelize young minds to make this earth a better earth. Educated and enlighted minds can transform the world by addressing the issues of poverty, livelihood, etc. Historically, Bharat had world-class universities in our country which was a golden phase. G20 is not to leave anyone behind in development. We all collectively can transform the world intellectually, materially and environmentally.
Various competitions were organized as part of the G20 program, and the winners were recognized and awarded prizes during this segment.
Ambassador Lalduhthlana Ralte delivered a special lecture on the G20 Indian Presidency. He gave an overview of the historical emergence of the G20 concept to address the global issues of poverty, environmental depletion, and to address them through promoting international cooperation. Engagement groups play a significant role to address the issues of youth, women and other marginalized groups. He shared insights into the steps India could take as the G20 presidency to promote inclusive growth and development.
A panel discussion on the topic of G20 and its role in addressing global challenges was held as part of the G20 University Connect program.
Prof. Niranjan Roy, Professor & Director, Centre for Studies in Human Development, spoke on the topic “India’s Demographic Dividend: Unlocking G20 Advantages.” He discussed the demographic advantages that India possesses and how these advantages can be leveraged within the G20 framework to drive sustainable development and economic growth. He mentioned various stages of development. In the global economic trajectory, both India and China were at the same level of economic development in the 70s and now China has surpassed us.
Dr. Shiva Kumar, Chief Conservator of Forest, Assam focused on the topic “Youth Responsiveness and Environment Activism.” He highlighted the importance of youth engagement in addressing environmental challenges and emphasized the role of G20 initiatives in promoting sustainable practices and conservation efforts.
Dr.Jayanta Choudhury, Tripura University, spoke on the topic “Localizing G20 Initiatives.” He shed light on the significance of adapting and implementing G20 initiatives at the local level to ensure effective and inclusive development. Dr. Choudhury discussed how localizing G20 initiatives can empower communities and address region-specific challenges.
Dr. Ravi Kannan, Director, Cancer Hospital and Society (Padmashree Awardee) delivered a presentation on the topic of “Youth Health and Wellbeing in the Contemporary Context.” He highlighted the various physical and mental health issues affecting today’s youth, such as lifestyle diseases, stress, and mental health disorders. Dr. Kannan emphasized the need for holistic approaches to youth healthcare and the role of the G20 in addressing these challenges.
Advocate Tuhina Biswas, Silchar Bar spoke on the topic of “The Role of G20 in Addressing Youth Challenges.” She addressed the challenges faced by youth in various spheres of life, including education, employment, and social empowerment. Advocate Biswas highlighted the importance of the G20 in creating an enabling environment for youth development and supporting their growth and well-being.
Prof. M. Gangabhushan, Programme Coordinator, NSS Celldelivered a presentation on the topic of “Youth as Change Agents: Prospects of Community Engagement.” He discussed the potential of youth in driving positive change in society through community engagement and active participation. Prof. Gangabhushan emphasized the role of the G20 in providing platforms and resources for youth to become change agents and contribute to sustainable development. Through collective action and incessant efforts by youth can act as change agents to address the issues that affect our society.
The session ended with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the speakers and participants, followed by the national anthem.The program was anchored by Dr. Subhodeep Roy Choudhury and Dr.Joyashri Dey.
