Master of Social Work cohort at Chanakya University had the honour of hosting the highly regarded Mrs. Savita Sulugodu, Chief Executive Officer of Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement (SVYM) and current Advisory Board Member of the MSW program at Chanakya. Mrs. Sulugodu came to the university to speak to the future social work practitioners from the university and share her experiences from an extensive career rife with social change and impact. Her visit was a special opportunity for the students to hear from such a high-calibre leader in the field and to offer them a broad perspective of how to apply and enact the social work principles they have been learning.
Mrs. Sulugodu drew on her extensive lived experience of working with a tribal community in H. D. Kote Taluk in the Mysore district of Karnataka India. Her numerous encounters allowed her to share inspiring personal stories and experiences that illustrated the tremendous importance and influence of community-based social workers. Her stories challenged students to reflect on aspects of direct practice, including the inherent challenges of working with marginalized communities in this particular geographical context that has a rich tribal history and preserved forest regions but also shared how directly engaging with such communities is personally very rewarding.
Mrs. Sulugodu’s address powerfully underscored the critical need for dedicated and culturally sensitive social work practitioners committed to fostering sustainable development and positive change at the grassroots level within communities like those in H. D. Kote. Her passionate sharing of on-the-ground realities undoubtedly enriched the students’ understanding of the complexities and vital importance of community-focused social work practice, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for the impactful contributions they can make in the lives of individuals and communities.
Mrs. Savita Sulugodu is the highly accomplished Chief Executive Officer of the Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement (SVYM), a prominent non-governmental organization based in Karnataka, India. With extensive experience in community development and social work, she has dedicated her career to addressing the needs of marginalized populations, particularly those within tribal communities. Her leadership at SVYM has been instrumental in implementing impactful programs in areas such as health, education, and sustainable livelihoods. Additionally, her expertise and guidance are valued as an Advisory Board Member for the Master of Social Work program at Chanakya University.
