The Cooperative Extension and Advisory Services (CEAS) Division of the National Cooperative Union of India (NCUI) successfully wrapped up the second batch of its five-day Certificate Course on “Cooperatives for Sustainable Rural Development (Coops4SRD)” on Thursday.
Held from March 3 to March 7, the program aimed to enhance students’ understanding of the cooperative model’s role in fostering sustainable and inclusive rural development. A total of 32 students from Pune’s Ramachandran International Institute of Management (RIIM) participated in the course, which provided them with insights into cooperative-specific concepts, hands-on learning experiences, and study visits to cooperative enterprises.
The interactive sessions included co-op pitches, where students presented innovative ideas for cooperative ventures, aligning with the program’s objective of fostering entrepreneurial thinking within the cooperative sector.
The valedictory session featured prominent figures from the NCUI, including Ritesh Dey, Executive Director of the National Cooperative Research and Coordination (NCRC) and CEAS Division; Dr. Sagar Wadkar, Adviser at NCUI and Course Director; Dr. Shrija Sinha, Research Officer and Course Coordinator; and Rajni Sharma, Assistant Director at NCUI. Faculty members from RIIM, Pune, were also present to support the graduating participants.
Dr. Sinha provided an overview of the course highlights, detailing key sessions, interactive activities, and study visits that enriched the students’ learning experience. Several student representatives shared their feedback, emphasizing how the program reshaped their perspective on cooperative enterprises. They also proposed valuable suggestions for improving the course, which NCUI acknowledged and considered for future iterations.
In his closing remarks, Ritesh Dey underscored the importance of cooperative education in shaping future leaders and commended students for their enthusiastic participation. He encouraged them to view the cooperative sector as a promising career avenue, given its potential for driving sustainable development.
Dr. Wadkar concluded the session with a formal vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the faculty, students, and the NCUI team for their collective efforts in making the program a success. He also extended best wishes to the participants for their future endeavors.
With the success of this batch, NCUI continues its commitment to strengthening cooperative education and empowering youth with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to sustainable rural development.
