In a powerful address at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) convocation ceremony, distinguished academician Professor S. Parasuraman urged over 5,000 graduates to apply their social science education to create a positive social impact.
Emphasising the motto, “Transform Lives, Transform Society,” Professor Parasuraman highlighted the unique role of social sciences in addressing critical societal challenges and fostering social justice.
Speaking to an audience of young graduates and faculty members, Professor Parasuraman outlined the importance of critical thinking and empathy as essential tools for driving meaningful social change. With their rigorous training, he stressed that TISS graduates are uniquely positioned to tackle issues like inequality, poverty, and marginalisation.
As per The Economic Times reports, Professor Parasuraman highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in solving complex social problems, advocating for collaboration across fields such as sociology, economics, psychology, and public policy. This, he argued, is key to creating sustainable solutions that address the root causes of social issues.
The ceremony also featured a statement from the TISS Director, who reiterated the institution’s mission to produce graduates capable of navigating and transforming complex social landscapes.
The convocation marked a significant milestone for TISS, with over 5,000 degrees conferred across various disciplines in the social sciences. Among the graduates were future social workers, policy analysts, and educators, all eager to contribute to India’s development and societal progress. In recognition of notable contributions to social work and policy, Distinguished Alumni Awards were presented to select alumni who have made significant strides in their respective fields, underscoring TISS’s legacy of producing socially committed professionals.
The event also emphasised social responsibility and community engagement, two pillars that have long defined TISS’s educational approach. Graduates were encouraged to foster an inclusive development mindset, particularly by focusing on marginalised populations whose needs are often overlooked.
With India facing many social challenges, the insights from this convocation serve as a call to action for TISS graduates, inspiring them to harness their expertise to make a tangible impact. Professor Parasuraman’s message and the institution’s enduring commitment to social betterment send a strong signal about the transformative power of social sciences in contemporary society.
