From Insights to Action: A Cohort's Journey in Development Practice

By Jayant, Koumari and Malaika , PGP-DM, Batch 08 | Published: 22 April, 2025

Once we returned from our eye-opening experience with Realizing India (RI), our classrooms felt different. This time, we weren’t just sitting at desks with notebooks; we were encouraged to bring the world outside into our learning. In Term 3, we embarked on a journey that would change how we viewed development and its role in society. We were introduced to three important courses: Systems Design, Intervention Design, and Development Monitoring and Evaluation.

We kicked things off with Systems Design, where we applied the principles of Systems Thinking to our RI projects. We had the freedom to choose topics related to the districts we had visited, which was both exciting and empowering. As we explored these topics, we were challenged to question our assumptions. Looking at our chosen issues through a Systems lens helped us see the connections between seemingly unrelated events. It was fascinating to discover how one problem could affect many aspects of a community in ways we hadn’t considered before.

Next, we moved on to Intervention Design. This course introduced us to Purposeful Program Theory (PPT), which built on what we learned in Systems Design by emphasizing clarity and intention. We started by clearly defining the problems we wanted to tackle, then identified specific focus areas, and carefully mapped out a logical chain of outcomes leading to our goals. Throughout this process, we kept in mind both the factors that could help us and those that might hold us back. Our quest to understand the root causes of issues pushed us to dig deeper until we got to the heart of the problems. This structured approach showed us how logical thinking could help us address complex social challenges.

Finally, we explored Development Monitoring and Evaluation (DME). This course highlighted the importance of monitoring and evaluation as tools for learning, making decisions, and adapting our strategies. We realized that every development practitioner needs to be skilled in DME. Knowing how we’re performing and identifying areas for improvement is crucial for effective practice. We learned that evaluation isn’t just a formality; it’s a continuous cycle of reflection and growth.

As we wrapped up our final assignments for the DME course, a sense of accomplishment filled the room. We had navigated a rich landscape of learning, and now it was time for a well-deserved winter break. This pause allowed us to rest, reflect on the valuable insights we had gained, and prepare for the upcoming jury presentations—both individual and group—that awaited us in the first week of January. The thought of sharing our work and insights with others filled us with excitement and a renewed sense of purpose. We were ready to take what we had learned in the classroom and apply it to the real world, equipped with the tools to make a meaningful impact.

A Night to Remember: Celebrating Prom at ISDM

At ISDM, we all know how intense and demanding our curriculum can be. With back-to-back lectures, assignments, and discussions, our schedules often leave little room for anything else. But amidst the rigor, there exists a side of ISDM that is equally enriching—one that allows us to pause, celebrate, and create memories together.

December brought with it one such occasion: Prom Night, or as some called it, the Christmas Carnival. It was a night unlike any other, filled with music, laughter, and the joy of togetherness. What made it special was the inclusivity—it wasn’t just about bringing a “date.” You could attend with a friend, a group, or even as a trio; the idea was to enjoy and be yourself.The heart of our celebration was Majlis, a space where we usually immerse ourselves in learning. But on this night, it transformed completely. The room was decorated in red, blue, and white, setting the perfect backdrop for the evening. A red carpet welcomed us at the entrance, accompanied by a beautiful song playing in the background, making everyone feel special as they stepped in. The event kicked off with awards, where each cohort member received a title—some funny, some heartwarming, but all deeply relatable. It was a way to ensure that no one felt left out, reinforcing the strong sense of community we have built over time. As the night progressed, the dance floor came alive with a DJ night featuring an eclectic mix of Bollywood, Punjabi, Marathi, and regional music. The energy was contagious— everyone danced, laughed, and let loose, momentarily forgetting the stress of deadlines and coursework.

Looking back, Prom Night was more than just an event—it was an experience. It reflected the spirit of ISDM, where learning and celebration go hand in hand. Just as our curriculum challenges conventional norms, the way we come together to celebrate is equally unique. This night was a reminder that ISDM is not just about academics; it is about people, emotions, and memories that make the journey worthwhile.

Special Highlights

One of the most enriching aspects of ISDM’s curriculum is Realizing India (RI)—a unique 15-day immersion program where students travel to different districts across the country. This journey is not just about exploration but about deeply understanding the people, their culture, and the real-world challenges they face. It is an experience of stepping into their shoes, seeing life through their lens, and building narratives that reflect their realities.

Upon returning, we had the incredible opportunity to showcase our learnings and experiences at the RI Mela, held at the beautiful Rose Garden of the India International Centre. The event was more than just an exhibition; it was a space where each group brought their district’s identity to life through stories, products, and artifacts. But what made it even more special was the interaction with CSR heads, global leaders, industry experts, CEOs of NGOs, and key players in the social impact space. Their insights, advice, and encouragement broadened our perspectives, deepened our understanding, and reinforced our commitment to driving meaningful change. The event was not just about presenting; it was about learning, networking, and co-creating knowledge with people who have spent years in this sector.

The energy carried forward into the very next day, November 21, 2024, with the Dialogues on Development Management (DoDM)—a pioneering national conference that took place at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, Delhi. Launched in 2023, this initiative aims to bring together diverse voices from the development sector, including Social Purpose Organizations (SPOs), consultancies, financial institutions, and CSR leaders. This year, we were privileged to have Aamir Khan—not as an actor, but as the CEO of Paani Foundation—as our chief guest. His presence and insights were a testament to the power of using influence for social good.

DoDM was a day of intense discussions, thought-provoking workshops, and meaningful dialogues. It provided us, as ISDM students, a golden opportunity to engage with experts, hear firsthand accounts of their experiences, and reflect on the complexities of development management. More than just an event, it was a moment of realization—of the work that lies ahead, of the potential we hold, and of the collective effort needed to create lasting impact.