Social Science Research Centre
Social Science Research Centre
The Social Science Research Centre at Government College for Women, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is an independent and interdisciplinary academic hub dedicated to advancing social science researches, capacity-building, and scientific inquiry. Through rigorous analysis, training initiatives, and evidence-based public policy interventions, the Centre strives to generate actionable knowledge and transformative ideas that contribute meaningfully to social change.
Vision
To foster interdisciplinary research in social sciences that addresses contemporary societal challenges, promotes inclusivity, and contributes to policymaking for a just and equitable society.
Objectives
- Encourage collaborative research across disciplines in social sciences.
- Promote critical thinking and innovative approaches to societal problems.
- Engage with policymakers, practitioners, and community organizations for impactful research dissemination.
- Provide a platform for undergraduate and postgraduate students to engage in research.
- Host regular lectures, workshops, and conferences.
Governing Body
- Dr B Sreekumar, Principal, Government College for Women, Thiruvananthapuram
Members
- IQAC Co-ordinator
- Dr Nimi Dev, Professor of Commerce
- Sri Shiju Joseph, Associate Professor of Psychology
- Dr Sajeena, Associate Professor of Philosophy
- Sri Harilal C, Associate Professor of Political Science
- Lakshmi S Nair, Assistant Professor of History
- Dr Hari Kurup K K (External Expert)
- Dr Godwin S K (Hon Director & Professor of Economics)
The Governing Body has approved the following studies to be undertaken.
- Institutional History of Government College for Women in the context of Kerala Higher Education
- Documenting palliative care in Kerala
- Mapping the role and functioning of IQACs in Higher Education Institutions in Kerala
- Role of Campus Job Fairs in Enhancing Employability and Career
Outcomes for Graduates in Kerala (Pilot study)
Key Activities
- Research Projects:
- Apply and obtain projects recommended by the Committee and approved by the head of the Institution.
- Undertake studies on pressing local, regional, and national issues such as poverty, urbanization, education, and migration.
- Collaborate with other institutions and government agencies.
- Workshops and Training:
- Offer capacity-building programs for students and faculty on research methodologies and data analysis tools.
- Conduct training on emerging areas like big data analytics in social science research.
- Community Engagement:
- Partner with NGOs and community-based organizations to identify challenges and co-create solutions.
- Publications and Knowledge Sharing:
- Publish an annual journal focusing on innovative research in social sciences.
- Create an online repository of research papers and policy briefs.
- Networking:
- Build a network of social science scholars and practitioners.
- Host conferences and symposiums to bring experts together.
Structure and Governance
- Hon Director: A senior faculty member with expertise in social sciences.
- Advisory Committee: Principal is the chairperson of the Centre, an external expert in social science research and faculty members representing social science departments and behavioural science department.
General Guidelines for the Centre
- Sustainability: Develop a financial plan with funding from grants, sponsorships, and collaborations.
- Inclusivity: Ensure diverse representation in research, governance, and activities.
- Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish a mechanism to evaluate the impact of the Centres’ activities regularly.
- Infrastructure: Create dedicated spaces with libraries, resource materials, and access to digital tools for research.
- Collaboration: Forge partnerships with national and international institutions, NGOs, and industries.
- Accountability: The Centre will report its activities to the College Staff Council and will function under the overall guidance of the Governing Body.
- Term of functionaries: A committee including the Hon Director will have a term of office of THREE years and can continue for a period of one more term. If any of the member/s retire/get transferred/other eventualities, such vacancy may be filled in by the Committee.
