Question

What was the theme of the inter-collegiate debate competition?

• A. The future of artificial intelligence in engineering.
• B. The impact of pandemic work culture on women in tech.
• C. Sustainable engineering practices.
• D. The role of women in leadership in technical fields.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. The impact of pandemic work culture on women in tech.

Inter-Collegiate Debate: Theme Analysis

• Key Focus: The central theme of the debate was the 'Impact of Pandemic Work Culture on Women in Tech.' This indicates a discussion exploring how the shift to remote work and altered professional environments during the pandemic has specifically affected women in the technology sector.

• Relevance to Economics (ധനതത്വ ശാസ്ത്രം): While seemingly a social issue, this topic has significant economic implications. Discussions around workforce participation, productivity, career progression, and gender pay gaps are core to economic analysis. The pandemic's impact on these factors for a crucial demographic like women in tech falls under labor economics and gender economics.

• Connection to Kerala Model Development (കേരളാ മോഡൽ വികസനം): The Kerala Model is characterized by its focus on human development, including high female literacy and labor force participation. Debates touching upon gender dynamics in a key economic sector like technology can be analyzed through the lens of whether the Kerala Model's principles are being upheld or challenged in the face of global trends like the pandemic's impact on work. It prompts questions about policy interventions needed to ensure equitable outcomes for women in the workforce, aligning with the development goals of inclusive growth.

• Potential Debate Points:

  • Positive Impacts: Increased flexibility, better work-life balance for some, opportunities for skill development through online resources.

  • Negative Impacts: Amplified 'second shift' (domestic responsibilities alongside work), challenges in career advancement and networking, potential for burnout, impact on mental health, and the digital divide.

  • Sector-Specific Challenges: Issues unique to the tech industry such as algorithmic bias in hiring/promotion, and the need for inclusive virtual workplace cultures.

  • Policy Recommendations: Discussions likely explored policy measures for governments and tech companies to mitigate negative effects and promote gender equity in the post-pandemic tech landscape.