Srinagar: The Department of Social Work at the University of Kashmir celebrated a significant milestone as forty postgraduate students pursuing their Master’s in Social Work (MSW) recently wrapped up an immersive Rural Camp/Fieldwork Tour to Hyderabad. Running from November 2nd to 14th, 2023, this expedition was meticulously designed to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical applications in rural development and social work.
Collaborating with the Bosco Institute of Research and Development for Youth (BIRDY) was pivotal in providing students with hands-on learning experiences. Interactive sessions and visits to the Don Bosco Campus exposed them to the tangible implementation of social work initiatives, offering a comprehensive understanding of the field beyond textbooks.
A pivotal moment during this tour was the active participation of these students in the National Social Work Congress hosted at Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU) in Hyderabad. This platform facilitated idea exchange, research showcasing, and networking with seasoned professionals, significantly enhancing their grasp of social sciences and its real-world applications.
The tour didn’t merely stop at conferences but also encompassed visits to esteemed institutions such as the National Institute of Rural Development (NIRD) and the Rural Technological Park (RTP) in Hyderabad. These visits provided invaluable insights into the challenges and innovative approaches in rural development, shedding light on the integration of technology to address societal issues.
Dr. Shazia Manzoor, Head of the Department of Social Work at the University of Kashmir, emphasized the instrumental role played by the university’s leadership in the success of their recent educational endeavor. Speaking about the transformative Rural Camp/Fieldwork Tour to Hyderabad, Dr. Manzoor highlighted the pivotal contributions of Prof. Nilofer Khan, the esteemed Vice-Chancellor.
“Prof. Nilofer Khan’s visionary guidance has been foundational to the success of this educational initiative,” stated Dr. Manzoor. “Her unwavering support and guidance paved the way for this enriching experience, setting the tone for our students’ immersive learning journey.”
Acknowledging the indispensable role of administrative support, Dr. Manzoor expressed gratitude for the steadfast backing provided by Registrar Dr. Nisar Ah Mir and Jt Registrar (Budget) Dr. Ashfaq Ah. Zarri. “Their support was integral in ensuring the smooth execution of this transformative journey,” she emphasized.

KR Desk