NCUI's role in youth inclusion: empowering the future of cooperatives

The National Cooperative Union of India (NCUI), established in 1929, has been the torchbearer of the cooperative movement in India, representing the entire sector as an apex organisation. With a vast network of 30 State Cooperative Unions (SCUs) and 284 member organisations across the country, NCUI has consistently worked to promote and develop cooperative societies, especially in underdeveloped regions. Recognising the critical role of youth in sustaining and advancing the cooperative movement, NCUI has implemented several initiatives aimed at increasing youth engagement and inclusion.

Connecting with young people

The Coop Connect programme aims to promote and popularise the cooperative model of development among young people, and cooperative education in schools, colleges and universities, The programme has already worked with several private, government and Navodaya schools, where students learn about cooperative values and principles, and the role of cooperatives in the national economy. Through tailored educational modules, Coop Connect introduces the basics of cooperative management and highlights the sector's unique features and its significant contribution to the national economy. Key activities under this programme include study visits to successful cooperatives, competitions focused on cooperative themes, practical training in forming cooperative societies and organising seminars and awareness programmes. This initiative has also trained a government school faculty to create a pool of Cooperative Trainers, further disseminating cooperative knowledge.

Youth Committee on Cooperatives:

To ensure the active participation of young people in the cooperative movement, NCUI established a Youth Committee comprising dynamic leaders and officers from various cooperative organisations. This committee focuses on promoting youth inclusion at local, national, regional, and global levels. By fostering cooperation through the exchange of knowledge, ideas, and experiences, the committee works towards enhancing youth cooperatives, improving employment opportunities for young people within the sector, and advocating for better working conditions and social protections. The committee also creates platforms for youth to connect, share ideas, and receive training, thereby strengthening their role in the cooperative movement.

Student Internship Programmes:

NCUI's Internship Program is designed to engage young minds by involving them in innovative approaches and short-term projects that strengthen cooperative networks through grassroots interventions. By engaging students from reputed universities and colleges, NCUI helps future professionals conceptualise and execute awareness programmes that promote cooperative identity and values.

Organising Quiz and Debate Competitions

NCUI organises Quiz and Debate Competitions on cooperatives which plays a pivotal role in fostering youth inclusion within the cooperative movement. These events, held during significant occasions like the All India Cooperative Week, engage students from top-level educational institutions in Delhi, encouraging them to delve into cooperative principles and practices. Through such interactive platforms, young minds are not only educated about the cooperative sector but are also inspired to think critically, articulate their thoughts, and work collaboratively. By involving youth in these intellectual exercises, NCUI effectively promotes a deeper understanding and appreciation of cooperatives among the next generation, ensuring their active participation in the movement's future.

Centre for Entrepreneurship Development & Cooperation (CEDC):

Recognising the need to infuse new energy into the cooperative sector, NCUI has established the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development & Cooperation (CEDC). This dedicated cell focuses on diversifying cooperative businesses and preparing the groundwork for cooperative startups by youth. CEDC is actively working on a roadmap to facilitate the formation of these startups, tapping into the creativity and expertise of young entrepreneurs.

Collaborations and MoUs:

To further enhance youth engagement, NCUI has forged partnerships with several institutions:

- National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), New Delhi: This collaboration empowers artisan members of handloom and handicraft cooperatives through design interventions by NIFT students.

- PYXERA Global: In partnership with PYXERA Global, NCUI is developing the nation’s first Coops-Community Lead Fellowship to nurture youth leadership within the cooperative sector. This collaboration also aims to generate awareness and interest in cooperatives through roundtables, webinars, and other intellectual content.

- National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Small Business (NIESBUD): NCUI has signed an MoU with NIESBUD to organise training programmes for students and youth, focusing on cooperative entrepreneurship.

Through these initiatives, NCUI is not only promoting youth inclusion in the cooperative movement but also ensuring that the next generation is well-equipped to lead and innovate within the sector. By providing education, training, and opportunities for engagement, NCUI is empowering young people to contribute to a more cooperative, inclusive, and prosperous India.