Faculty Development Programme on Community-Based Participatory Research at Mizoram University, Aizawl

The six-day Faculty Development Programme (FDP) on Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) under Unnat Bharat Abhiyan was successfully conducted at the UGC–Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Centre (UGC–MMTTC), Mizoram University, from 9–14 March 2026.

The programme brought together faculty members, researchers, and practitioners to explore participatory research approaches that strengthen the link between academic institutions and communities. The inaugural session featured distinguished speakers, including Shri Armstrong Pame, Joint Secretary (ICC/RUSA/UBA), Ministry of Education; Prof. K. Lalhmangaihzuala, Joint Secretary, Higher & Technical Department, Government of Mizoram; Prof. Benjamin Lalrinsanga, Joint Director, Higher & Technical Department, Government of Mizoram; Prof. Virendra Kumar Vijay, National Coordinator, Unnat Bharat Abhiyan, IIT Delhi; Prof. Lalnundanga, Registrar, Mizoram University; Dr. Diksha Rajput, Joint Secretary, University Grants Commission; and Prof. K. Robin, Director, UGC–MMTTC, Mizoram University.

Throughout the programme, speakers highlighted the transformative potential of Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) in addressing societal challenges, fostering collaborative knowledge creation, and advancing inclusive and sustainable development. Participants engaged in expert-led sessions, interactive discussions, and field visits that provided practical exposure to community-engaged research and strengthened their understanding of participatory approaches.

The Faculty Development Programme concluded with a renewed commitment to integrating community-based participatory research into higher education, reinforcing the role of universities as active partners in addressing local development challenges and promoting socially responsive teaching and research.