Renowned Harvard economist Professor Jeffrey B. Liebman delivered a lecture on “Actionable Policy Research” on 28th November 2024. Professor Jeffrey B. Liebman, is a distinguished economist and public policy expert from Harvard Kennedy School. Professor Liebman’s illustrious career includes significant contributions to U.S. policy reforms, particularly in poverty alleviation and economic inequality. As an Economic Advisor in the Obama administration, he played a pivotal role in shaping anti-poverty programs and enhancing economic security initiatives
Professor Deepak Kumar Behara, Vice Chancellor of KISS-DU, inaugurated the session by delivering the Welcome Address, emphasizing the importance of integrating education, policy, and governance to ensure holistic societal development. Professor Behera highlighted the necessity of an inclusive, culturally sensitive education system that addresses the unique needs of tribal communities, calling for bridging the gap between policy design and implementation and advocating for strategies that align both aspects to achieve sustainable outcomes.
Professor Liebman in his address explored the complexities of policymaking in contexts where information is often incomplete or inaccurate. Speaking to a diverse audience of faculty, students, and scholars, he highlighted the pressing challenges of rising poverty, homelessness, and educational disparities affecting marginalized groups.
He underscored the critical role of accurate and comprehensive data in shaping effective policy decisions. Drawing from his extensive experience in public policy, Professor Liebman analyzed the adverse effects of privatization on vulnerable communities and emphasized the essential contributions of social workers in mitigating systemic challenges. He called for a renewed focus on rebuilding inter-community relationships and fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders to enhance the effectiveness of governance and social policies.
The lecture was followed by an interactive session, where participants delved into various critical issues. Discussions included the need to balance the integration of mainstream and indigenous communities while preserving the rights, identities, and cultural heritage of indigenous populations. The conversation also explored the challenges posed by globalization to indigenous cultural practices, the impact of market-driven privatization on community autonomy and land rights, and the ongoing threats to indigenous identities through cultural erosion and external pressures.
Participants reflected on policy approaches implemented during the Obama administration, examining their effectiveness in addressing the needs of indigenous communities and promoting their welfare. The session also addressed the persistent challenge of translating well-designed policies into effective, actionable measures, highlighting the gap between policy frameworks and ground-level implementation.
Professor Liebman’s lecture and the ensuing discussion provided valuable insights into the complexities of policymaking and governance, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, cultural sensitivity, and data-driven strategies in addressing societal challenges. The event reaffirmed KISS-DU’s commitment to fostering academic dialogue on critical issues affecting marginalized communities.
Dr. Chittaranjan Bhoi, Dean of the School of Comparative Tribal Languages and Literatures (SCTLL), concluded the session by summarizing the key discussions.
