Social Work Research: The Engine Behind Grassroots Governance, Says CUK Vice‑Chancellor

When Battu Sathyanarayana, the Vice‑Chancellor of the Central University of Karnataka (CUK), took the podium on a breezy July evening in Kalaburagi, he wasn’t just delivering a lecture – he was sounding a call to action for every social work researcher on campus.

Addressing a packed hall of faculty, scholars and eager students, he reminded everyone that social work research is far more than academic exercise. It is the bridge that carries raw, on‑the‑ground realities straight into the corridors of power, helping governments design welfare programmes that actually work for people living in villages.

“Our field visits, community interactions, village surveys and data‑collection trips are not just check‑boxes,” he said, “they are the very evidence that policymakers need to craft responsive, effective development policies.” He pointed out that when researchers translate that evidence into clear, actionable recommendations, the state and even the central government can fine‑tune schemes – be it health, education or livelihood initiatives – to fit the nuanced needs of the grassroots.

Beyond shaping policy, the Vice‑Chancellor stressed another crucial role: implementation. Social work professionals, he noted, are often the first point of contact for beneficiaries, raising awareness about schemes, helping people navigate bureaucratic hurdles, and nudging behavioural change where it matters most.

He urged scholars to pursue research that is original, ethically sound and socially relevant, insisting that the true measure of their work lies in tangible societal progress. “Our findings should not gather dust on a shelf,” he added, “they should drive national development.”

The lecture itself was delivered by Professor Manohar Pawar of Charles Sturt University, who is also a visiting professor at CUK. He walked the audience through research methodology, the nuts and bolts of academic writing, and the importance of publishing in reputable journals. His message was clear: uphold integrity, aim for impact, and let the world see the value of Indian‑led social work research.

As the evening wound down, the room buzzed with renewed enthusiasm. Young researchers left with a fresh resolve—to take their field notes, transform them into robust studies, and ultimately, help the government serve the people better.