Vikash Kumar, an assistant professor of social work at Northern Michigan University (NMU), has been recognized for his significant contributions to the International Consortium for Social Development (ICSD). As a board member and director of information and technology at ICSD, Kumar was honored at the organization’s 24th biennial conference in India.
Kumar emphasized the importance of global academic collaboration in shaping social work education. “Regular engagement with scholars allows us to refine our curriculum and address the evolving needs of communities worldwide,” he said. He also announced that in 2027, ICSD will partner with the University of Georgia School of Social Work for its 25th conference, providing NMU students and faculty an opportunity to participate.
At the recent ICSD conference at Rajagiri College of Social Sciences in Kochin, India, Kumar presented research on skill gaps in human rights organizations operating in a neoliberal environment. His study explored the challenges faced by grassroots organizations assisting marginalized populations, including domestic workers and people experiencing homelessness. Through qualitative research, he identified critical gaps in areas such as funding mobilization, program management, strategic planning, and advocacy. His findings highlight the need for capacity-building initiatives to strengthen these organizations.
In addition to presenting his research, Kumar engaged with scholars from around the world to discuss academic collaborations and student exchange opportunities. He stressed the importance of global conversations in shaping social work education. “Conferences like these foster ongoing discussions that help refine our courses and curricula, ensuring they remain relevant in addressing future challenges,” he noted.
ICSD, an international organization with branches across Asia-Pacific, Africa, and Europe, has been a leading platform for social development discussions for over five decades. Kumar has played a key role in expanding ICSD’s reach, organizing conferences, fostering international partnerships, and supporting the publication of Social Development Issues, a peer-reviewed journal. His ongoing efforts continue to advance the field of social work on a global scale.
