USA: A global call for action to students across the world

A very new University Challenge that aims to create real links between the academic world and the world of social action is being launched by Ashoka, global leaders in the promotion of social entrepreneurship, and Ashoka?s Changemakers initiative.

The challenge calls on students and staff of universities and colleges from around the world to participate actively in helping social innovators to refine and enrich their projects. How? By providing a user-friendly, online, open source platform where innovators can post their projects and where students and professors can give their opinions and feedback on the projects. The aim is to promote dialogue, debate and the sharing of skills and learning, but also to spark collaboration between the people who meet on the platform.

Web 2.0 sceptics may wonder whether online exchanges can really work to bring change to the ?real world?. At Changemakers they already know that they can. Some of the outcomes of past challenges on Changemakers have been truly surprising, such as the forging of new partnerships between India?s largest bank and one of India?s largest rural women?s programs, or the scaling of a Thai affordable housing solution by the world?s largest cement manufacturer.

Changemakers launches seven collaborative competitions a year, so students and faculty members can participate at any time. But, good intentions and networking opportunities aside, what?s in it for them? Ashoka Changemakers is committed to real change ? what is more real than a cash prize for the most substantive contributions? Those students who make the most worthwhile and consistent contributions will be awarded $500, while a $3000 grant will be awarded to the college who?s faculty, staff, students and alumni contributed the most insightful comments.

To participate, register and create your profile on www.changemakers.net/universitychallenge

More info:
www.ashoka.org
www.changemakers.net