Corporate Social Responsibility to CAR

Can we talk about CAR ? ( CORPORATE ACADEMIA RESPONSIBILITY).

Most of Business organizations are quite familiar with the Word " CSR ". In most recent writings about the Companies Bill 2012 and related issues there is always a reference, even if in passing, about corporate social responsibility (CSR) to the extent that it is now almost fashionable to discuss CSR.

It was in a similar moment in history that Social development ceased to be the responsibility of the government and the citizens alone and a third player, now popularly known as the non-governmental sector took on a key role. A similar moment of reckoning has come again.

While it may be argued that business and industry has always contributed to development and welfare, it is time to look at other factors which will contribute to the growth .

While there has been lot of systems in place to support social development , Very less has been done systematically to address the Industry and Academia relationship. Every Industry in the future will lack the skilled and knowledge manpower at various levels . The reason being the curriculum in many institutions is not in sync with the industry needs. Many flagship companies in India have been encouraging Universities , technical institutions and collaborate with them , it is still believed to be done in isolation and need based . Government of India has also initiated program of National Skill development mission and making efforts to bridge the gap between damand and supply .The effectiveness of such initiatives on the ground needs to be monitored further. But even if it is successful , it may also be considered in isolation by many Industries.

Also we have some kind of support from Govt in the form of grants to some Academic institutions / Universities but the corporate participation is missing clearly.

The PROPOSAL : In most of the developed countries , governments have made it compulsory for industries and business organizations to collaborate with Academic institutions. On the similar lines India can initiate measures to systemically address the responsibility of corporates and govt towards Academic institutions by bringing amendments to companies act to supplement CORPORATE ACADEMIA RESPONSIBILITY.

Industry , Academic institutions and thought leaders suggestions and views are most welcome to take it forward.