The proposed programme, "Systems Thinking as a Problem-Solving Skill," at Krea University focuses on building problem-solving skills by leveraging systems thinking. In today's VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous) world, no problem can be solved in isolation. The complexity of global challenges requires a holistic approach that integrates multiple perspectives. Systems thinking is the idea that everything is interconnected—through this lens, a different process for problem-solving emerges. Thus, systems thinking becomes an essential skill to navigate the complexity of the current world, enabling students to identify root causes and develop sustainable solutions. This programme focuses on the use of systems mapping, feedback loops, and leverage points to analyse and address problems. By integrating real-world case studies from sustainability, education, and climate change, the programme encourages interdisciplinary thinking and engages students in a practical group exercise involving the systems mapping of a research paper on 'Whole-Institution Approach to Sustainability through Systems Thinking'. The intent of this workshop is not only to help students understand the theoretical application of systems thinking but also to provide hands-on practice by mapping real-world examples of its use in higher education institutions, thus reinforcing the course's emphasis on applying systems thinking as a problem-solving skill.

Soumi DuttaGupta is an educator with 25 years of professional experience in Clinical Research and Education. A postgraduate in Environmental Botany from Visva Bharati, she spent 17 years in the Clinical Research industry before transitioning to Education. Over the past eight years, she has focused on promoting community engagement and environmental consciousness among K-12 students through nature-based interdisciplinary programmes. In 2017, she founded WORDPLAY, an interdisciplinary creative writing initiative , which evolved into REGENESYS in 2023. This platform co-creates regenerative learning processes with parents and schools, guided by systems thinking (the science of interconnectedness) and eco-pedagogy ( an approach fostering sustainability and eco-consciousness in education ). Soumi has deepened her expertise with international courses like "Systems View of Life" by Dr. Fritjof Capra and "Sustainability in Teaching" by Gaia Education, UK. She has also worked with the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL), USA, as an Associate Faculty for transformational youth leadership programmes in Indian Universities, Soumi aims to inspire students to explore systems thinking, nurturing sustainable and equitable solutions for global challenges.

Note: The workshop is open to all on 18 December 2024. On 19 December 2024, the workshop is mandatory for COMP312 and open to all.