Social innovation in Indian higher education is becoming increasingly crucial as institutions seek to address the diverse challenges facing society. This chapter explores innovative strategies employed within the Indian higher education sector to foster social impact and address societal needs. Drawing on a range of case studies and examples, it examines initiatives that integrate social responsibility, community engagement, and sustainability into the fabric of higher education institutions. These strategies encompass various dimensions, including curriculum development, research initiatives, community outreach programs, and partnerships with stakeholders from diverse sectors. The chapter highlights the importance of collaboration among academia, government, industry, and civil society in driving social innovation in higher education. Furthermore, it discusses the role of technology and digital platforms in enhancing the reach and effectiveness of these initiatives.
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Social innovation is transforming higher education in India, offering innovative solutions to society's challenges. As India faces economic growth, urbanization, and technological advancements, HEIs play a crucial role in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future. This chapter explores the landscape of social innovation in Indian higher education and strategies used for positive societal change(Сисоєва et al., 2021). Higher education (HEI) is undergoing a paradigm shift, moving beyond traditional academic pursuits to include social responsibility and community engagement. Indian HEIs are now recognizing their role as catalysts for social transformation, using their intellectual capital to address societal issues. This shift reflects the realization that knowledge should not only be confined to academia but also have a tangible impact on the wider community(Ahmad, 2020).
Social innovation is crucial in higher education, especially in India, where disparities persist in access to education, healthcare, and basic amenities. Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) can bridge these gaps by fostering a culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility among students and faculty, using the collective expertise of academia, government, industry, and civil society(Ghista & Sharma, 2023). Social innovation in higher education aims to reimagine traditional university roles to better serve society, imparting knowledge, skills, and values of empathy, citizenship, and ethical leadership. Through innovative pedagogical approaches, interdisciplinary research, and community partnerships, HEIs can create meaningful opportunities for students to engage with real-world challenges and develop solutions positively impacting society(Callender et al., 2020).
Social innovation in higher education (HEIs) involves various activities such as curriculum development, research, community outreach, and social enterprises. It promotes a culture of innovation and collaboration, encouraging critical thinking, problem-solving, and creative solutions. By integrating social innovation into higher education, institutions can cultivate a new generation of change-makers with the necessary skills to tackle society's most pressing issues(Peter et al., 2023).
Higher education institutions (HEIs) in India play a crucial role in harnessing the potential of youth for social and economic development. They provide equitable access to quality education, foster innovation and entrepreneurship, and empower young people to become active agents of change. By aligning their research agenda with national development priorities, HEIs can contribute valuable insights and solutions to societal challenges(Cross, 2019). The text emphasizes the need for a paradigm shift in Indian higher education, focusing on a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable model that prioritizes society's needs. It calls for collaboration among government, academia, industry, and civil society to produce skilled professionals and nurture socially responsible citizens, thereby fulfilling the mandate of Indian Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to build a better world(Dagevos & Veen, 2021).
The Indian higher education sector is undergoing significant transformation to tackle societal issues through innovative methods. Social innovation is being used to promote positive change within institutions, integrating social responsibility, sustainability, and community engagement. This chapter examines the role of social innovation in Indian higher education, highlighting key strategies and initiatives shaping its response to societal needs(de Souza Bispo & Almeida, 2020). Social innovation in Indian higher education is a shift from traditional academic excellence models to a holistic understanding of education's role in inclusive development. Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are now recognizing their responsibility to engage with communities, highlighting the interconnectedness between education, social progress, and economic prosperity(Mishra et al., 2020a).