Mumbai, August 2022: HSNC University Mumbai organised its first ever lecture series-Harbingers of Change – Stories of Transformation with Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi as the Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker. The event was held at Rama and Sundri Watumull Auditorium, KC College Mumbai today.

Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani, Provost HSNC University Mumbai, Mr. Anil Harish, President H(S)NC Board and Dr. Hemlata Bagla, Vice Chancellor HSNC University Mumbai and Principal, KC College were also present on the stage.

Mr Satyarthi spoke simply, yet powerfully. His words touched a chord with everyone in the audience. His simple language and casual conversational approach captivated the audience, till the end. He dwelled humbly on his work towards children and how his belief could make it a global movement. He spoke about the 3-D philosophy to students where he encouraged them to Dream right, Discover the resources within and outside and finally take the plunge and do it!

‘Dream, Discover and Do’ is the mantra that everyone should follow to drive transformation in the society, said Shri. Kailash Satyarthi. He also emphasized how compassion, love and global bonding are the values which will make world a better place for all. He emphasized the gravity of child labor globally and reiterated his resolve that every child needs to be protected, every childhood needs to be protected. He motivated the students with his affirmations, “I’m here to ignite fire within you. The fire that will motivate you to act for yourself, your nation and the entire humanity.”

He also touched upon the issue of women safety and gender equality in India, stressing that there is a need to protect and respect women, it should start from each household. Merely worshipping Lakshmi, Saraswti and Durga is not enough.

Earlier, Prof Hemlata Bagla, Vice Chancellor HSNC University Mumbai and Principal KC college welcomed the chief guest and other eminent guests. She expressed her gratitude toward Mr. Satyarthi for gracing the occasion and said that the HSNC University Mumbai is privileged to have a great personality like him to inaugurate the lecture series. She emphasized the university’s commitment to providing quality and inclusive education. She extended the university’s interest in collaborating with the Satyarthi Global Policy Institute for Children and take forward the crusade for child rights.

Dr. Hiranandani in his speech assured that HSNC University Mumbai is with Mr. Satyarthi in every mission, in every possible way. He highlighted that HSNC University Mumbai would like to join hands with Mr. Satyarthi in various ways through provision of legal aid to the victims of child abuse, research support, and mental health support for the children and victims of abuse. He said, every member sitting in the auditorium will take the values and vision of Mr. Satyarthi and contribute in some way to the noble cause taken up by him.

Mr. Anil Harish introduced the gathering to the humongous body of work of Mr. Satyarthi. He spoke about how the Bachpan Bachao Aandolan shaped up from Mr. Satyarthi’s vision. He said, “Mr. Satyarthi, single handedly, has brought in a change in the society. His vision and passion, clubbed with the most significant value of compassion has led the fight for protection of children rights.”

Mr Yunus Khan, Udhghoshak Vivid Bharti and master of ceremony for today’s event delivered the vote of thanks. The event was graced by the trustees and members of the H(S)NC Board, Principals of constituent colleges, deans of faculties and several eminent academicians, researchers and scientists. The event motivated the students about how they can be the harbingers of positive change in society; and however little, but their efforts and kindness towards the marginalized is a brick in the wall of community development.