The University of Melbourne has recognised Dr Kiran Martin, a paediatrician turned social reformer, with an honorary Doctor of Laws (honoris causa) for her transformative work empowering nearly one million residents of New Delhi’s slum communities.
Dr Martin, founder and director of Asha, an organisation dedicated to improving health, education, and socio-economic conditions for India’s urban poor, was among five distinguished individuals to receive the university’s highest honour during recent graduation ceremonies.
From humble beginnings in 1988—when a cholera outbreak inspired her to set up a makeshift clinic under a tree in a South Delhi slum—Dr Martin has built Asha into a beacon of hope (asha in Hindi translates to “hope”).
The organisation’s comprehensive model addresses systemic inequalities, particularly around caste and gender, through initiatives in healthcare, education, sanitation, and financial inclusion.
Notably, infant mortality rates in Asha-supported communities have plummeted to 11 per 1,000 live births, compared to India’s national average of 28.3. Asha’s educational initiatives have enabled over 5,000 slum youth to attend university, with some earning advanced degrees from institutions such as the University of Melbourne.
“Dr Martin’s lifetime of service has impacted millions of lives and created an outstanding model of community empowerment,” said Assistant Vice-Chancellor Professor Jim McCluskey AO.
“She is an inspiration for how universities and civil society can partner to uplift marginalised communities worldwide.”
Dr Martin’s impact extends beyond India. Her work has been recognised internationally, earning accolades such as India’s Padma Shri honour in 2002 and acknowledgment as a “best practice” model by the United Nations Habitat program.
In her address at the University of Melbourne ceremony, Dr Martin dedicated the award to the resilient slum residents she serves.
“Their courage has changed me, and their dreams will continue to change the world.”
The other notable recipients include Associate Professor Martha Macintyre, a distinguished anthropologist; The Hon Nicola Roxon, an advocate for public health and social justice; Uncle Paul Briggs AO, a Yorta Yorta leader dedicated to advancing Aboriginal affairs; and Professor André de Quadros, a pioneering music educator.
Interim Vice-Chancellor Professor Nicola Phillips commended their achievements, highlighting their commitment to community service, global impact, and the advancement of human wellbeing.
Further, Prof. Phillips highlighted the broader significance of the awards:
“These remarkable individuals embody the University’s commitment to community service, global impact, and advancing human wellbeing.”
Dr Martin’s work in Australia is supported by the Friends of Asha Australia society and AusAid. Her impactful initiatives have drawn notable Australian visitors to Asha project areas, including former Prime Minister Julia Gillard. In October 2023, the University of Sydney awarded Dr Martin an Honorary Doctor of Letters for her significant contributions to India’s welfare and leadership in civil society.
This recognition adds to Dr Martin’s growing legacy of using visionary leadership and innovation to challenge social hierarchies, empower women, and create lasting change in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities.
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