In a groundbreaking move, HSNC University, Mumbai is set to provide students and faculty with specialised training to address the urgent climate change challenges unique to India. This is a key component to the newly launched Climate Skills –Seeds for Transition India programme, led by the British Council, which aims to equip both educators and students with essential knowledge and tools to combat climate change. This initiative is part of the British Council’s global Climate Skills programme, funded by HSBC, working across five countries: Brazil, Mexico, Indonesia, Vietnam and India.
HSNC University, Mumbai is one of only three institutions selected to implement the India programme, with the goal of developing master trainers within the University and its affiliated colleges. These trainers will extend the programme's impact to the wider community.
The programme will be rolled out in phases, beginning with the training of faculty members and representatives from various University departments. In the first phase of the training program which began on 22nd March 2025, 17 master trainers and two co-facilitators selected by HSNC University underwent training with global experts appointed by the British Council. They were part of a larger cohort of over 55 trainers from HSNC University, TERI and the University of Mumbai, who received training this week.
The first phase featured a five-day training session with these international experts. Later, the master trainers will lead various local initiatives, working with young people, including workshops and collaborative projects with local administrations, NGOs and other stakeholders to initiate region-specific climate action projects. These may include creating public biodiversity registers, conducting wetland conservation programs and performing energy audits aimed at promoting sustainable development and reducing climate change vulnerabilities in local communities.
Col. Dr. Hemlata K. Bagla, Vice Chancellor, HSNC University, Mumbai emphasised, “This is a topic very close to my heart. Our goal is to train trainers who will implement similar programmes at their own levels. HSNC University, Mumbai has already been actively involved in initiatives like biodiversity surveys and wetland conservation, which will serve as expertise for students to bring to local administrations as they collaborate on various projects under this programme.”
Dr. Bagla also highlighted that the collaboration with local administrations will bring climate discussions down to grassroots level, fostering community-based solutions.
To ensure the long-term sustainability of these efforts, Dr. Bagla mentioned that HSNC University, Mumbai plans to establish green clubs across its constituent Colleges and Schools. These clubs will be managed by the master trainers trained through this initiative. Additionally, HSNC University is exploring the possibility of incorporating these climate action projects into academic credits, further encouraging student participation and involvement.
With this forward-thinking programme, HSNC University, Mumbai is taking a significant step towards fostering climate awareness and sustainable practices among its community, preparing students and faculty to be proactive leaders in the fight against climate change.
About HSNC University, Mumbai
Hyderabad Sind National Collegiate University (HSNC University), Mumbai, a State Public University was set up in 2020 and is recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC) with Hon’ble Governor of Maharashtra Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan as its Chancellor; eminent lawyer Mr. Anil Harish as its Provost and Col. Dr. Hemlata K. Bagla as its Vice Chancellor.
HSNC University, Mumbai comprises renowned Mumbai colleges such as Hassaram Rijhumal College of Commerce & Economics (H.R. College) as its lead college with Kishinchand Chellaram College of Arts, Science & Commerce (K.C College) and Bombay Teachers’ Training College (BTTC) among its constituent colleges. With over 12,390 students enrolled currently, HSNC University has significantly enhanced its academic portfolio in just five years while launching seven schools: Niranjan Hiranandani School of Management & Real Estate (NHSMRE); D.M. Harish School of Law (DMHSL); Chellaram School of Yoga & Wellness (CSYOW); School of Applied Sciences (SAS); School of Performing Arts (SOPA); School of Humanities & Social Science (SHSS) & School of Interdisciplinary Studies (SIS).
HSNC University, Mumbai has a rich, industry-synced curriculum with futuristic teaching methods and is set to build partnerships with the industry. The aim is not only to learn from the requirements of the market and have industry collaborators willing to orient students towards the same but also to ensure internships and the best placements for its graduating students.
HSNC University, Mumbai aims to set new paradigms in education by harnessing the energy and enthusiasm of the young dynamic population of India and guiding them on the path of learning, knowledge, research, innovation, service to society and entrepreneurship.
In a short span of time, HSNC University is already making a significant mark in the field of higher education in Mumbai and across the country. With a focus on relevant and contemporary programs of study, it is quickly establishing itself as a key player in shaping the future of education.
