Is meaningful development practice only about implementing projects and achieving programme targets? Or does effective development action require a deeper understanding of society, governance systems and the forces that shape local realities?

Grassroots development practitioners work closely with communities on issues of livelihoods, welfare, rights, inclusion, and others. They play a critical role in translating policies and programmes into action. Yet many have acquired their knowledge primarily through experience in the field, with limited opportunities to engage systematically with broader ideas of development and governance. 

This often raises important questions. How are local realities shaped? What roles do the state, market, and civil society play in development processes? How do governance institutions influence development outcomes? And how can practitioners become more effective agents of change? 

Designed for experienced grassroots development practitioners and field coordinators, this programme seeks to deepen participants’ understanding of development and governance while strengthening their capacity for local action. It combines perspectives on Indian society, development processes, governance systems and, local economic development with practical competencies in planning, social accountability, social mobilisation, data use, and communication. 

Through a flexible and practice-oriented learning model, participants connect their field experiences with broader development perspectives and strengthen their ability to contribute to equitable and sustainable local development.

Who should join us?

• Designed for field coordinators and other grassroots development practitioners with at least five years of experience in the social sector (civil society organisations, grassroots organisations, community-based organisations and social movements)
• Particularly relevant for those working on livelihoods, local governance, welfare rights, social mobilisation, natural resource management, gender, education, health, and other development initiatives. 

Note: The programme will be conducted primarily in Hindi. English will be used as a supplementary language.

Eligibility Criteria

• Undergraduate degree in any discipline
• At least five years of work experience in the social sector in areas such as local governance, livelihoods, welfare rights, social mobilisation, natural resource management, gender, education, health or other development initiatives
• Currently working with a civil society organisation, grassroots organisation, community-based organisation, social movement or a similar development organisation
• Ability and commitment to participate in a blended learning programme while continuing professional work
• Proficiency in Hindi (reading, writing and speaking) and functional understanding of English (reading and writing)

We encourage applications from women and other underrepresented groups in the social sector.

Note: Please let us know if you have any childcare requirements. The University will try to make appropriate arrangements, although this cannot be guaranteed and may involve additional costs.

What does the programme offer?

This programme will help participants to:

• Deepen their understanding of Indian society, development processes, and the forces shaping local realities.
• Connect their field experiences with broader social, economic, political, and governance processes.
• Strengthen their capabilities to engage with local governance institutions, planning processes, and rights-based development approaches.
• Enhance analytical, communication, and professional competencies for effective development practice.

The programme will be offered in a blended mode.

On-campus (6 days): Classroom interactions will focus on intensive discussions, practical exercises, collaborative learning, and engagement with faculty and practitioners. 

Online (8 Saturdays): Learning will take place through lectures, discussions, group work, readings, audio-visual materials, assignments, and guided activities delivered over weekends. Online classes will be held on Saturdays from 9:30 AM to 5 PM with lunch and tea breaks.

Self-learning (Asynchronous): Participants will engage with readings, films, videos, audio materials, and other learning resources designed to support reflection and independent study.

Programme Calendar (Tentative)*

* The dates are indicative and may change. Dates will be re-confirmed a month in advance of each Certificate.

Theory and Practice of Development Action

Competencies for Local Governance

Analytical and Professional Skills 

Pedagogy

The pedagogy draws on participants’ field experience and emphasises reflection, peer learning, case discussions, group activities and the application of concepts and skills to real-world development challenges.