Bodoland University Hosts Workshop on Qualitative Social Science Research

Itanagar, India Jul 13, 2026 ALN: KOKRAJHAR: The National Service Scheme (NSS) Cell of Bodoland University, in collaboration with the Faculty of Social Sciences and the Centre for Wildlife Research and Biodiversity Conservation, organized a one-day workshop on “Qualitative Social Science Research” at the university. This workshop aimed to enhance the understanding and application of qualitative research methods among participants, which is increasingly recognized as vital in the field of social sciences.

Qualitative research is a method of inquiry that focuses on understanding human behavior and the reasons that govern such behavior. It emphasizes the importance of context and the subjective experiences of individuals, making it particularly useful in fields such as sociology, anthropology, psychology, and education. Given the complexities of human interactions and societal structures, qualitative methods enable researchers to delve deeper into the nuances of social phenomena, providing insights that quantitative methods may overlook.

Dr. Ambika Aiyadurai, an associate professor at IIT Gujarat, served as the resource person for the workshop. Her expertise in qualitative research, particularly in the context of social sciences, provided a rich foundation for the discussions that took place. The workshop saw participation from around 60 research scholars, teachers, and former students from various departments of Bodoland University, as well as representatives from other universities and Aaranyak, a Government of India-recognized scientific and industrial research organization. This diverse group contributed to a vibrant exchange of ideas and experiences related to qualitative research.

Prof. B. L. Ahuja, the vice-chancellor of Bodoland University, inaugurated the workshop. In his opening remarks, Prof. Ahuja stressed the importance of conducting research that benefits society. He pointed out that the social science curriculum should be updated to meet changing global needs, particularly in light of rapid advancements in technology. He highlighted the growing importance of digitization and artificial intelligence in education, suggesting that these elements should be integrated into research methodologies and academic programs to better prepare students for future challenges.

Moreover, Prof. Ahuja encouraged scholars to take up research topics of international relevance, emphasizing that the findings of such studies could contribute significantly to global discourse. This call to action aligns with broader trends in academia, where interdisciplinary approaches are increasingly valued, and researchers are encouraged to engage with global issues such as climate change, migration, and social justice.

Prof. Hilloljyoti Singha, program coordinator of NSS and dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology, welcomed the participants and explained the workshop’s objectives. His remarks set the tone for the day, highlighting the necessity of qualitative research in addressing complex social issues. Prof. Sanghamitra Choudhury, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, expressed hope for more such collaborative programs in the future, recognizing the potential for interdisciplinary cooperation to enhance research quality and relevance.

Prof. A. I. Chanu, Dean of the Faculty of Commerce and Management, noted that the workshop would help researchers understand how qualitative and mixed research methods can strengthen academic studies. The integration of qualitative methods with quantitative approaches, known as mixed methods research, is gaining traction in various fields as it allows for a more comprehensive understanding of research questions. This approach can be particularly effective in social sciences, where human behavior and societal dynamics are often complex and multifaceted.

Retired Forest Range Officer Bablu Dey shared his experiences of wildlife conservation during the workshop. His insights underscored the value of traditional knowledge in understanding nature and the environment. Dey's perspective highlighted the importance of incorporating local knowledge and practices in research, particularly in fields related to ecology and conservation. This approach not only enriches the research but also fosters community engagement and empowerment, ensuring that research outcomes are relevant and beneficial to local populations.

Dr. Ambika Aiyadurai's presentation was a highlight of the workshop, as she shared her extensive field research experience. She spoke about the importance of qualitative research in understanding communities and society, emphasizing that qualitative methods can unveil the underlying motivations and cultural contexts that shape human behavior. Her discussions on interviewing techniques, field documentation, data analysis, and research ethics were particularly valuable for participants, many of whom were early-career researchers seeking to enhance their methodological skills.

The workshop included four technical sessions covering various aspects of qualitative social science research, including interviewing methods, processing field notes, and research ethics. Each session featured interactive discussions with participants, fostering an environment of collaborative learning. This format allowed attendees to engage directly with the material and share their own experiences, thereby enriching the overall learning experience.

In the valedictory session, Prof. Jatin Sarmah, the rector of Bodoland University and chair of the university’s Ethics Committee, attended and reflected on the importance of ethical considerations in research. Ethical research practices are crucial in social sciences, where the well-being and rights of participants must be prioritized. Prof. Sarmah's presence underscored the university's commitment to maintaining high ethical standards in research and education.

The implications of this workshop extend beyond the immediate learning experience of the participants. By fostering a culture of qualitative research at Bodoland University, the institution is positioning itself as a leader in addressing social issues through rigorous academic inquiry. As researchers become more adept at employing qualitative methods, they will be better equipped to contribute to discussions on pressing societal challenges, thereby enhancing the university's impact both locally and globally.

Furthermore, the collaboration between various departments and external organizations such as Aaranyak signifies a growing trend towards interdisciplinary research. This collaborative approach can lead to innovative solutions to complex problems, as it brings together diverse perspectives and expertise. As Bodoland University continues to host workshops and programs that promote qualitative research, it will likely attract more scholars and practitioners interested in exploring the intersections of social sciences, wildlife conservation, and community engagement.

In conclusion, the one-day workshop on qualitative social science research at Bodoland University represents a significant step towards enhancing research capabilities among scholars and practitioners in the region. By emphasizing the importance of qualitative methods and encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration, the university is not only contributing to the academic community but also fostering a more informed and engaged society. As the landscape of research continues to evolve, initiatives like this workshop will play a crucial role in shaping the future of social science inquiry and its relevance to contemporary global challenges.