Mangaluru: The School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, will host its flagship international conference, SPANDANA 2024-25, on 16th and 17th January 2025. Themed “Progressive India: Pathways to Sustainable Development and Inclusive Growth,” the two-day event will bring together students, social work practitioners, academicians, and policymakers to discuss strategies for fostering a developed and inclusive India.

Inaugural programme and keynote address

The conference will begin on 16th January at 10:00 AM at the Maria Paiva Hall, with an inaugural address by Chief Guest Shri K. Shekar, Chief Labour Commissioner (Central), Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India. The keynote address will be delivered by Mr. Sobins Kuriakose, Consultant at the World Bank, New Delhi. The programme will be presided over by Dr. Sophia N. Fernandes, Principal of the college.

Focus areas and expert sessions

SPANDANA will feature expert sessions addressing key themes influencing India’s growth trajectory:

  1. Education for a Developed India:
    Speakers:

  • Mr. Pathanjali Bhat, Head of HR, Ivanti, Bengaluru
  • Dr. Purnima Venkat, Assistant Professor, T A Pai Management Institute, Manipal
  • Health and Well-being in a Developed Nation:
    Speakers:

    • Dr. Sudhir Prabhu H, Head of Community Medicine, Father Muller Medical College, Mangaluru
    • Dr. Rameela Shekhar, Mental Health Professional, Manashanthi Counselling, Research and Training Centre, Mangaluru
  • Green Energy and Environmental Sustainability:
    Speakers:

    • Dr. Maheshwari Kumari Singh, Deputy Environmental Officer, KSPCB Regional Office, Mangaluru
    • Dr. Noor Mubasheer C A, Head of PG Studies and Research in Social Work, St. Philomena’s College (Autonomous), Mysuru
  • Digital India: Bridging the Urban-Rural Divide:
    Speakers:

    • Dr. Ananth Prabhu G, Professor and Cybersecurity Expert, Sahyadri College of Engineering and Management, Mangaluru
    • Mr. Sandeep S P, Head of HR, Pratt and Whitney India Business, Bengaluru

    Additional highlights

    The conference will include:

    • Scientific paper presentations by researchers and academicians in social work.
    • A theme-based cultural programme showcasing India’s diverse heritage.
    • Attendance by over 250 participants from various institutions and professional backgrounds.

    By addressing critical development challenges and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, SPANDANA 2024-25 aims to inspire actionable insights for a sustainable and inclusive future for India.