ABOUT THE MILLENNIUM FELLOWSHIP - CLASS OF 2024
United Nations Academic Impact and MCN are proud to partner on the Millennium Fellowship. This year, 52,000+ young leaders applied to join the Class of 2024 on 6,000+ campuses across 170 nations. 280+ campuses worldwide (just 5%) were selected to host the 4,000+ Millennium Fellows.
UNITED NATIONS ACADEMIC IMPACT AND MCN PROUDLY PRESENT IRA DILIP URKUDE, A MILLENNIUM FELLOW FOR THE CLASS OF 2024.
Maharashtra National Law University Nagpur | Nagpur, India | Advancing SDG 4, SDG 1 & UNAI 3
" Nurtured children thrive like plants in sunlight, while neglected ones struggle.
As I grew into adulthood, I discovered that the misfortunes of many lay beyond the fairy tale veil. I realized that while some individuals search for the ideal school, others face a more fundamental struggle - finding access to any education at all. The luxury of choice is a privilege only a few can afford. The SDG 1 and UNAI 3 goals present a broad spectrum of legitimate expectations out of which I have the privilege to select and carve out the best of what I can offer. This fellowship's structure will help me deliver the ultimate idea of 'us' and not just me. After all, it takes a whole village to raise a child! "
Millennium Fellowship Project: Petals Of Change
The project prioritises the holistic development of children through targeted skillbuilding programs, including the introduction of tools like the abacus and tailored curriculum adjustments for the specially-abled, addressing every need closely. The project aims to empower young minds and bridge educational disparities. The project's dual approach is innovative and impactful. Firstly, training shall be provided to family members of children, who work on our campus, to harness locally available resources like organic waste from their own and nearby households. This shall enable them to create sustainable livelihood opportunities by converting waste into valuable products such as organic vermicompost catering for the local market, not only addressing environmental concerns but also opening avenues for supplementary income generation within the community for the long term. Comprehensive support shall be provided to set up necessary facilities, ensuring a stable source of income. A skill learned cannot be unlearned. The amount raised by channelling the local market shall be pooled in the student fund dedicated specifically to this community which will tapped into every month's end to fulfil their ward's needs. Secondly, Through targeted skill-building programs, including the introduction of tools like the abacus and tailored curriculum adjustments for the specially-abled. Allowing and addressing every need closely, aiming to empower young minds and bridge educational disparities.
About the Millennium Fellow
Ira Dilip Urkude is currently in her final year of study, pursuing integrated honours degree in Law and Humanities. As a native of a developing country, Ira aims to recognize vulnerable communities and integrate their concerns into global priorities. She has shown great potential in addressing complex social issues through their involvement in various initiatives, including providing educational support for vulnerable communities. Her project addresses the interconnected issues of poverty and education while integrating a pro-climate approach to foster sustainable development and ensure a more equitable future. Ira plans on pursuing a master's degree in International Law, with a focus on global governance and international relations.
