INTELLECTUAL SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
We all are more or less familiar with the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). CSR is a business approach that encourages companies to actively consider their impact on society and act responsibly. It goes beyond focusing solely on profits and instead integrates social and environmental concerns. The primary objective of CSR is to make positive contributions to society, promote long-term sustainability, and prioritize the well-being of stakeholders, including employees, customers, communities, and the environment.
On the other hand, Intellectual Social Responsibility (ISR) is an individual's responsibility to contribute to sociocultural development through intellectual and creative investments. ISR emphasizes using intellectual endeavors to address societal issues and drive positive change, going beyond mere financial contributions. This concept is championed by architect Enamul Karim Nirjhar.
Enamul Karim Nirjhar advocates for the integration of CSR and ISR, and one example of this integration is seen in initiatives like country’s Annual Book Fair, known as 'Amar Ekushe Grontho Mela.' As SYSTEM architects, we have had the privilege of designing the fair for consecutive 04 years from 2019 to 2022 as ISR contribution. This event is the largest public gathering in our nation and serves as our contribution to ISR. It celebrates intellectual and cultural development, brings together authors, publishers, and book enthusiasts, and provides a platform for promoting literature, fostering community engagement, and facilitating knowledge sharing.