Unleashing Student Power: A Revolutionary Approach to Scaling Social Impact!
For decades, the traditional method of tackling societal challenges has been the establishment of non-profit organisations. However, despite the best intentions and efforts, progress has often been slow and incremental. The basic issue we have in addressing these social concerns is one of scale. The daunting and intractable nature of these problems demands innovative solutions that can make a significant impact. In this article, we will look at how students might help overcome the problem of scale and drive significant change in tackling societal issues.
For your acknowledgement, Malaysia's inflation rate remained at 3.7% in February 2023. When compared to the same month the previous year, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) climbed from 125.2 to 129.8. Housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels, as well as recreation services and culture, both increased by 1.7%. Within the Food & Non-Alcoholic Beverages category, all subgroups saw price increases ranging from 0.6% to 9.0%. The Meat subgroup had the highest increase of 9.0%. Sugar, jam, honey, chocolate, confectionery, and fish & seafood increased by 3.6% and 3.2% respectively. Oils & fats moderated to a 0.6% increase. On a monthly basis, inflation in February 2023 rose by 0.2%. Core inflation, which excludes volatile prices of fresh food and government-administered prices, remained at 3.9%. In February 2023, six states—Wilayah Persekutuan Putrajaya, Selangor, Johor, Sarawak, Pahang, and Perak—recorded inflation rates above the national average of 3.7%. However, Kedah and Wilayah Persekutuan Labuan had the lowest increases at 2.3% each.
The fundamental challenge in dealing with social problems is one of magnitude. While many individuals and organizations have been actively involved in addressing societal issues by forming non-profits and working through NGOs and government entities, we have not been able to achieve fast and significant progress. Despite decades of experience and efforts, these problems remain daunting and intractable, with only small and incremental solutions being achieved.
Students can consider the following techniques to tackle this challenge:
New perspectives and inventiveness
Students bring fresh perspectives, boundless creativity, and a natural inclination to question the norm. Their unique outlook on the world allows them to see social problems through a different lens and envision innovative solutions. By harnessing their creativity and encouraging them to think outside the box, students can bring fresh ideas and approaches to the table, offering a unique contribution to solving complex social issues.
Idealism and Passion
Students' enthusiasm and idealism drive their dedication to improving the world. Their passion empowers them to take bold actions, engage in activism, and advocate for change. By harnessing their energy and idealism, students can become influential catalysts for social transformation, inspiring communities and motivating others to get involved.
Knowledge of Technology
The younger generation's tech-savviness and reliance on digital tools can be utilized creatively to address social issues. Students can leverage technology, like mobile apps, online platforms, and social media campaigns, to develop scalable solutions with a broader reach. Technology enables efficient connection, collaboration, and resource mobilization, empowering students to make a significant impact.
Network Collaboration
Students excel at collaborating and forming diverse networks. They thrive in team environments, combining their skills to tackle complex challenges. By promoting collaboration among students, educational institutions, businesses, and community organizations, we can create strong ecosystems for addressing social issues. These networks allow students to leverage collective knowledge, share resources, and amplify their impact through a multiplier effect.
Educational institutions and platforms like mynext work together to empower students through education. By integrating social impact initiatives, service-learning, and mentorship programs, students gain the knowledge, skills, and support needed to drive meaningful change. Education focusing on areas like social entrepreneurship, leadership, and critical thinking equips students with tools to navigate complex social problems and develop scalable solutions. Collaborating with mynext amplifies efforts, providing additional avenues for student empowerment and creating a positive impact on society.
Students have enormous potential to address the scope of social issues. Their unique perspectives, passion, tech skills, collaboration, and access to education make them a powerful force for change. By empowering and supporting students, we can unleash their capacity to create significant and scalable solutions. Let us acknowledge the students' power to reshape the narrative around social problems and build a better future together.
