Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The D.D. Kosambi School of Social Sciences and Behavioural Studies at Goa University recently concluded a four-day specialization-related study tour in Pune, Maharashtra, from October 13 to 16, 2024.
The tour was a valuable opportunity for 19 students and three faculty members from the Master of Social Work (MSW) program to gain practical exposure and hands-on learning experiences in diverse social work settings.
During the tour, students visited several well-known organizations in Pune, including the Muktangan De-addiction & Rehabilitation Centre, Centre for Youth Development & Activities (CYDA), Jerwada Slum and Police Station, Family Planning Association, Saheli Sangh and Budhwar Peth Red Light Area, Tribal Cultural Museum, Parivartan, and Deepgriha Society. These organizations work across vital areas of social welfare, addressing youth empowerment, addiction recovery, reproductive health, mental health support, and cultural preservation, giving students the opportunity to observe the critical role of social work in community development.
The study tour had significant outcomes for students, enhancing their understanding of social work in action and helping them develop essential professional skills. Students observed a wide range of social work practices and interventions, gaining insight into real-world applications that complement their academic knowledge. Through team-based activities and coordinated visits, students also developed communication, conflict resolution, and time-management skills, which are fundamental to professional growth in social work. Moreover, the tour enabled students to critically assess the effectiveness of various social programs, encouraging them to think analytically about stakeholder participation, program management, and community impact.
“The specialization-related study tour to Pune has equipped our students with a meaningful perspective on social challenges within diverse communities,” said the program coordinator at Goa University. “Our aim is to continually offer field-based experiences that reinforce the principles of social work and foster the skills needed for effective professional practice.”
This successful study tour marks another milestone for the Social Work Programme at Goa University, which remains committed to providing a well-rounded academic experience that combines theoretical knowledge with field-based learning.