2025 - Feb - Online - Collaboration - India - NMCT Global Academy

Date:13 February 2025 

1. Introduction

On 13 February 2025, NMCT hosted a virtual meeting aimed at advancing international educational collaboration for social work courses. The primary objective was to design structured training programs that provide students with global exposure, hands-on learning, and professional development opportunities. Key stakeholders from academia and industry participated to outline actionable strategies and frameworks.

2. Meeting Overview 

2.1 Opening Remarks 

The session began with Dr. Shoby Bovas, COO of NMCT, summarizing progress from prior discussions. Mr. A.S. Sankaranarayanan, Managing Trustee of NMCT, facilitated introductions of core participants: 

- Mr. T. Bala – Software Engineer (Cognizant) and Globalization Consultant. 

- Dr. Peng – International Academic Consultant (Taiwan)

- Dr. John Britto – Director, JOBA Academy (Australia). 

2.2 Agenda

The meeting focused on three pillars: 

1. Development of a concept note for global training programs. 

2. Establishment of management and administrative frameworks. 

3. Finalization of program areas and academic offerings. 

3. Key Discussion Points 

3.1 Concept Note Development 

Dr. John Britto emphasized the need for a concise ‘one-page concept note’ to precede a formal project proposal. Key recommendations included: 

- Inclusion of advisors from diverse continents to ensure global representation. 

- Collaboration with Indian universities for academic expertise. 

Dr. Peng proposed starting with a pilot project, leading to consensus on integrating the following programs: 

- Training programs and internships. 

- PMP certification and social work training. 

- Diploma, degree, and certificate courses. 

3.2 Management and Administrative Framework 

A dual structure was approved to oversee operations: 

Management Structure

- Core Team: Mr. A.S. Sankaranarayanan (NMCT), Dr. Peng, Dr. John Britto. 

- International Advisory Committee: Representatives from universities, NGOs, and corporations. 

- National Committee: Indian academic experts, NGOs, and community-based organizations. 

Administrative Structure 

- Operational Staff: Secretariat, registration managers, trainers. 

- Academic Staff: Course coordinators, lecturers, researchers. 

- Project Execution Team: Managers and implementers. 

3.3 Program Areas and Offerings 

The following domains and course levels were finalized: 

Focus Areas 

- Social Work: Community development, HR, women’s entrepreneurship, counseling, and project management. 

- Global Culture: Cross-cultural competency modules. 

- Innovation & Sustainability: Green technologies and sustainable practices. 

Course Levels

- Certificate (hours to be defined). 

- Diploma (hours to be defined). 

- Degree and Master’s programs. 

4. Conclusion and Next Steps 

The meeting concluded with unanimous agreement on the proposed frameworks. Key outcomes included: 

- Finalization of the concept note outline and program domains. 

- Establishment of committees to drive implementation. 

Next Steps 

- Refine the concept note by 25 February 2025. 

- Hold a follow-up meeting in the first week of March 2025 to review progress and allocate roles. 

This collaboration marks a pivotal step toward fostering global educational partnerships, ensuring students gain cutting-edge skills and cross-cultural competencies. 

Prepared by: NMCT Secretariat 

Approved by: Mr. A.S. Sankaranarayanan, Managing Trustee, NMCT 

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