MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU) is proud to announce the commencement of its innovative Co-Creation Programme, designed specifically for first-year undergraduate students to address pressing societal challenges. Scheduled from January 6 to January 11, 2025, this transformative initiative engages approximately 6,500 students in collaborative problem-solving activities that bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application.

Overview of the Co-Creation Programme

The Co-Creation Programme is mandatory for all first-year students and emphasizes transdisciplinary collaboration. Developed under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Joske Bunders, Director, Co-Creation Research Institute MIT-WPU, Pune & from Athena Institute, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, and Dr. Rahul V. Karad, Executive President of MIT-WPU, this programme underscores the university's dedication to social responsibility and sustainability. It complements the existing Rural Immersion Programme, focusing on experiential learning and fostering interactions with diverse communities to gain varied perspectives.

Key Highlights

• Real-World Impact: Students engage with societal issues that matter.
• Collaborative Learning: Participants work in teams to brainstorm and create innovative solutions.
• Hands-On Experience: The programme includes practical, problem-based activities.
• Expert Guidance: Over 150 distinguished faculty members provide mentorship.
• Community Engagement: Students join a vibrant network of more than 5,500 peers.
• Academic Credits: Participants earn 1 credit while making a meaningful impact.

Session Breakdown

The programme consists of five structured sessions:

Session 1 (Day 1): Students form groups and choose complex societal problems from a curated list. They dive into the intricacies of their selected issues and identify knowledge gaps

Session 2 (Day 2): Participants analyze the root causes of their chosen problems using a problem tree exercise and define essential questions for further exploration.

Session 3 (Day 3): Students conduct fieldwork by interviewing relevant stakeholders, gathering data to enhance their understanding of the issues at hand.

Session 4 (Day 4): Focus shifts to data analysis, where students identify gaps and formulate specific, actionable solutions (SMART).

Session 5 (Day 5): The final session culminates in presentations where students share their findings and proposed solutions with peers and external actors for constructive feedback.

Conclusion

MIT-WPU's Co-Creation Programme represents a significant advancement in education by integrating academic learning with societal needs. This initiative not only prepares students to think critically but also empowers them to take decisive action in addressing contemporary challenges. Join us on this exciting journey where education meets innovation, creating impactful solutions for a better tomorrow!