One Day National Seminar on “Conquering Poverty and Right to Employment” | No Poverty | SDG 1

On November 24, 2023, NIMS University organized a landmark event, the One Day National Seminar on “Conquering Poverty and Right to Employment.” This seminar brought together legal experts, scholars, students, and policymakers to address one of humanity’s most pressing challenges: poverty eradication. The seminar aligned with Sustainable Development Goal No. 1 – No Poverty, and aimed to explore the role of legal frameworks and strategies in empowering vulnerable populations.

Background and Objectives

Poverty eradication is a complex, multidimensional issue that requires a collaborative approach. The seminar aimed to foster dialogue and innovation in addressing poverty through employment rights and legal interventions. Its primary objectives included:

1. Highlighting Employment Rights: To educate participants about the legal rights that support employment and livelihoods.
2. Exploring Legal Frameworks: To analyze the potential of legal policies in reducing poverty and ensuring economic justice.
3. Engaging Stakeholders: To bring together diverse stakeholders for a collaborative discussion on actionable solutions.

Structure of the Seminar

The seminar comprised keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive sessions designed to delve into the multifaceted dimensions of poverty. The agenda included:

1. Inaugural Session:
   • The session began with a keynote address by a leading legal scholar, emphasizing the significance of employment as a fundamental right.
   • The Vice Chancellor of NIMS University highlighted the institution’s commitment to poverty eradication through education and skill development.
2. Panel Discussions:
   • Legal Policies for Poverty Eradication: Experts discussed the effectiveness of laws like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) in providing livelihood security.
   • Right to Employment as a Fundamental Right: Panelists debated the potential for recognizing employment as a constitutional right and its implications for reducing inequality.
3. Interactive Workshops:

• • • Workshops were held to equip participants with tools to understand and implement poverty alleviation schemes in their communities.
    • Legal practitioners shared insights into how local governments can ensure compliance with employment-related policies.

Key Insights and Discussions

The seminar shed light on several critical issues and potential solutions:

1. Employment as a Solution to Poverty: Employment generation was highlighted as the most effective way to uplift communities. Speakers emphasized the importance of ensuring equal access to job opportunities, particularly for marginalized groups.
2. Legal Awareness and Empowerment: Legal illiteracy often leaves impoverished populations vulnerable. The seminar stressed the need for greater awareness about employment rights and legal remedies.
3. Role of Institutions: Institutions like NIMS University were commended for their role in bridging the gap between policy and practice by conducting outreach programs and skill development initiatives.

Participant Engagement

The seminar saw active participation from students, faculty, and community members. Attendees contributed their perspectives on poverty eradication, enriching the discussion with diverse viewpoints. Breakout sessions allowed participants to brainstorm actionable solutions, fostering a collaborative atmosphere.

Outcomes and Recommendations

The seminar concluded with a set of actionable recommendations:

1. Strengthening Legal Frameworks: Advocating for the inclusion of the right to employment as a fundamental right under national law.
2. Policy Advocacy: Encouraging collaboration between academic institutions and policymakers to design and implement more effective poverty alleviation programs.
3. Community Engagement: Promoting grassroots initiatives to ensure that legal frameworks translate into tangible benefits for the poor.

Impact and Legacy

The seminar served as a catalyst for change, inspiring participants to contribute actively to poverty eradication efforts. Testimonials from attendees highlighted the event’s transformative impact, with many committing to champion employment rights within their spheres of influence.

Conclusion

The One Day National Seminar on “Conquering Poverty and Right to Employment” exemplified NIMS University’s dedication to addressing global challenges through education and collaboration. By focusing on the legal and employment dimensions of poverty, the seminar provided a platform for actionable dialogue and sustainable solutions. It stands as a testament to the university’s commitment to empowering communities and driving meaningful change.