Kumar Participates in UN Session on Social Challenges

Northern Michigan University Social Work Associate Professor Vikash participated in the 64th Session of the United Nations Commission for Social Development, held at United Nations Headquarters earlier this semester.

Representatives from UN member states, international agencies, scholars and civil society organizations gathered to discuss some of the world's most urgent social challenges, including poverty reduction, social inclusion, inequality, and sustainable development. Central to the discussions was the continued commitment to the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and the principle of "leaving no one behind."

During the session, Kumar collaborated with Professor Manohar Pawar in organizing an International Consortium for Social Development (ICSD) side event. He also contributed to a panel discussion titled "Implementation of the Doha Political Declaration: Strategies for Cross-Sector Collaboration and Integrated Approaches."

The panel, hosted by the ICSD, explored how governments, universities, nonprofits and community organizations can work together more effectively to turn international policy commitments into meaningful action within communities. The ICSD delegation was led by Professor Chathapuram Ramanathan.

Kumar reflected on how participation in global forums can reshape teaching and student learning. He noted that witnessing international dialogue firsthand highlighted the importance of helping students connect classroom learning with real-world policy processes and global social work practice.

"This experience has encouraged me to think beyond traditional classroom teaching approaches and to bring UN-oriented learning into my courses," Kumar said. "It is important for students to understand how global policy spaces function and how they relate to social work practice."

He further emphasized the value of experiential and high-impact learning opportunities that allow students to engage with international perspectives, collaborative problem-solving and policy-informed practice. His participation reflects his ongoing commitment to bridging academic learning with global social development conversations and preparing students to think critically about social work in an interconnected world.

Learn more about the UN Commission for Social Development's 64th Session here.