Empowering Research Exploring Societal Narratives and Transformative Practices

 Department of Sociology and Social Work

Empowering Research Exploring Societal Narratives and Transformative Practices

At CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, the School of Social Sciences recently

hosted an enriching seminar titled "Doing Research" on September 12, 2023. The event aimed

to delve into the fundamental processes of research while exploring the intersection of diverse

societal narratives, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Empowering Research Initiatives

The seminar featured insightful presentations by PhD scholars and students from the Department of Sociology and Social Work. Ringngheti Khenglawt, Apeksha Singegol D, Anoushka De, Rajan Gupta, Shivani S, Shreeganesh, and Balaji shared their research endeavours and experiences, shedding light on critical societal issues.

Key Insights and Takeaways

Apeksha emphasised the importance of diverse sources for a robust literature review, while

Ringngheti highlighted the significance of identifying research gaps with a professional and

non-judgmental approach. The need for strong work ethics and empathy towards research

participants emerged as essential themes.

Exploring Societal Narratives

Ringngheti discussed the cultural implications of dubbed Hindi soap operas and Korean dramas

in Mizo entertainment. At the same time, Apeksha examined the evolution of Tamil cinema as a

reflection of Tamil politics and social issues. The presentations underscored the role of media in

shaping cultural identities and societal discourse.

Transformative Practices and Experiences

The research interns shared their diverse experiences, offering insights into fields ranging from

child rights advocacy and cybersecurity awareness to spirituality in plural societies. Through

internships at organizations like CRY, The Nudge, and the Centre for Development Studies,

students engaged in impactful research on education, rural development, and social

empowerment.

Aligning with the SDGs

The seminar resonated with several Sustainable Development Goals:

Goal 4: Quality Education - Research initiatives focused on education policies and practices,

contributing to quality education and lifelong learning opportunities.

Goal 5: Gender Equality - Efforts to address societal issues such as cybersecurity awareness

and rural development promote gender equality and social inclusion.

Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities - Research on caste dynamics in Tamil cinema and rural

development policies in Telangana addresses inequalities and promotes social justice.

Follow-up and Action

The seminar served as a platform for students to grasp the intricacies of research

methodologies and ethical practices. Emphasis was placed on refining theories and

methodologies to address specific research topics, fostering professionalism, teamwork, and

empathy.