NHRC launches online internship to foster human rights advocacy
By Doruvu Paul Jagan Babu: Assistant Chief Editor
New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has launched a two-week Online Short Term Internship Programme (OSTI), providing 80 students across India with insights into human rights laws, their application, and advocacy.*
Focus on empowering advocates for human rights
The NHRC’s Online Short Term Internship Programme began on January 27, with 80 graduate and postgraduate students selected from various disciplines nationwide. The program aims to deepen participants’ understanding of human rights, equipping them to advocate for the rights of marginalized communities.
Inaugurating the session, NHRC Member Justice (Dr.) Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi highlighted India’s longstanding tradition of respecting human rights. “Our Constitution and legislation embody a commitment to safeguarding these rights,” he said. He urged interns to actively engage in the program, learn from experts, and use their knowledge to promote justice and equality.
Curriculum highlights and hands-on learning opportunities
Joint Secretary of NHRC, Devendra Kumar Nim, outlined the curriculum, which includes lectures and virtual tours of human rights institutions like Tihar Jail. The program also incorporates activities and competitions designed to sharpen participants’ knowledge and skills in addressing human rights issues.
Lt Col Virender Singh, Director of NHRC, expressed gratitude to the participants and emphasized the importance of their role in building a society that upholds justice and equity for all.
Objective: Advocating for vulnerable communities
The internship is designed not just to educate but to inspire students to become active defenders of human rights, focusing on the needs of vulnerable populations. Through exposure to real-world challenges and expert-led sessions, the NHRC aims to create a new generation of human rights advocates in India.
The program concludes in two weeks, with participants expected to emerge as informed voices for a more equitable society.
