Chümoukedima, March 18 (MExN): The Department of Social Work, Tetso College, observed World Social Work Day on March 17, marking its first-ever celebration alongside the culmination of Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) Phase I.
Centred on the theme “Co-building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society,” the programme emphasised unity, collective responsibility and mutual support. The event brought together village leaders, academicians, school representatives, faculty members and students, highlighting the role of experiential learning and community engagement.
The department presented its fieldwork across five adopted villages—5th Mile Model Village, Unity Village, Diphupar ‘B’, Sovima and Ikishe—where students undertook various community-based activities.
In his keynote address, Dr R Yaongam stated that social work extends beyond aid, focusing on empowerment and addressing inequality through dignity and justice. He underscored the role of social work education in enabling students to create sustainable change.
Delivering the theme address, Dr Richie elaborated on the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan initiative of the Ministry of Education, which connects higher educational institutions with rural communities. He noted that students conducted over 100 household surveys to assess socio-economic conditions and identify developmental needs.
A key highlight was the presentation of student internship experiences, where participants shared insights from fieldwork, including household surveys, awareness campaigns, cleanliness drives and free health check-up camps.
Chief guest Sebastian Zumvu commended the initiative and called for greater youth participation in community development. He also highlighted the need for responsible citizenship and spoke on local initiatives such as waste segregation and plastic waste management.
The programme featured a photo exhibition titled “The Experience,” showcasing student engagement with communities, informed a press release from the college.
