EDU~ EDGE
The Department of Defence and Strategic Studies at the University of Madras organized a dynamic 2-day student initiative seminar recently. The seminar focused on an important theme of Embracing a Multipolar World and Unravelling of National Interests in Global Affairs.
The international order is shifting from a unipolar world dominated by the United States to a multipolar world with multiple centres of power. This multipolarity is driven by the rise of emerging economies like China and India, alongside regional powers like Brazil and Russia.
In a multipolar world, traditional notions of national interest become more complex. With multiple power centres, there is no single global agenda. Countries may find themselves with overlapping or even conflicting interests with various partners. Cooperation becomes essential to address global challenges like climate change and pandemics.
The seminar proceedings touched upon multifaceted themes such as the geopolitical dynamics, complicated regional power dynamics, and the imperatives of sustainability, the intricacies of internal conflicts, and the paramount importance of safeguarding sovereignty.
The seminar aimed to empower and inspire participants through a series of engaging events designed to unlock their potential. The event featured five key activities: Paper Presentation: A platform for students to showcase their research and analytical skills. Clash of Perception: An interactive session challenging participants’ perspective on various strategic issues.
Quest Fest: An event focused on fostering curiosity and critical thinking among attendees.
Brush Stroke Chronicle: A creative activity encouraging artistic expression and storytelling. Diplomatic Duos: A simulation exercise to enhance negotiation and diplomatic skills. Each event had an individual coordinator from II. M.A. Defence and Strategic Studies, who assured its success. Yukesh. R was the coordinator for Paper Presentation while Siva Bharati. S organised the Quest Fest. Karthigeyan R handled the event Diplomatic Duos,
Yogeswari S handled Brush Stoke Chronicle while Manikandan effectively coordinated Clash of Perception, the debate event.The seminar commenced with an inaugural session graced by Lieutenant General Karanbir Singh Brar, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Dakshin Bharat Area, Chennai. His presence graced prestige to the event and set a tone of inspiration for the participants.
For the valedictory function, Brigadier G.S. Pandher, SM, the esteemed Station Commander at Station HQ, Chennai, was invited to present the conclution remarks.
The success of this initiative was bolstered by the presence and support of the department’s professors – Dr. Utham Kumar Jamadhagni, Dr. E Prabhakar, and Dr. I Hiller Armstrong. Their guidance and perseverance played a pivotal role in ensuring the grandsuccess of the event.
