Sujata Saunik is an Indian Administrative Service member from the 1987 batch, a Takemi Fellow (2017-18) from Harvard University, and a Research Fellow at the Mittal South Asia Institute. She has worked in various departments at both state and federal levels, including Women and Child, Disaster Management, and Public Health. Her work focuses on evidence-based government policies and realtime feedback on their implementation. She is also an adjunct faculty member and serves on advisory councils for Mumbai University and SNDTWU, Mumbai. Currently, she serves as Additional Chief Secretary in the Home Department and General Administration Department for the Government of Maharashtra.
What was your experience during the Takemi Fellowship at Harvard Chan?
My time as a Takemi Fellow at Harvard University was incredibly rewarding. It afforded me the privilege of utilizing the university’s extensive resources and library to advance my research. Additionally, the opportunity to meet and interact with renowned professors, whose works I had previously studied, was truly enriching.
What was the most valuable takeaway for you?
The most significant takeaway from the fellowship was the connections I forged. This includes not only my co-fellows and faculty members but also the broader university community. Through various conferences, workshops, and events, I was able to meet entrepreneurs, U.S. government officials, and alumni, enriching my experience further.
What would you advise others who are interested?
I would advise any public health manager, whether they hold a medical degree or not, to consider this fellowship. If you’re keen on research, data analysis, or simply wish to immerse yourself in a university setting to learn and grow, the Takemi Fellowship offers an exceptional opportunity at any career stage.