The Rural Camp organized by CSIBER’s D. K. Shinde School of Social Work, held in Kasaba Beed, Tal-Karvir, District Kolhapur from 17-20 April 2024, was a resounding success. With a focus on "Sustainable Development through Sustainable Social Work," the camp aimed to provide MSW I Year students with hands-on experience in applying social work methods, tools, and skills in rural settings.
The camp coordinator, Asst. Prof. Ms. Sharvari B. Katkar, led a group of 25 students (Social Work Trainees) from MSW I Year A Division, Roll Number 26 to 50. The objectives of the Rural Camp were comprehensive, including introducing students to rural life, creating awareness through various activities, working with vulnerable groups, conducting surveys, observing rural issues, and fostering voluntarism and human values.
Prior to the camp, extensive planning was undertaken. Social work trainees were given responsibilities for organizing the entire program, from the inaugural to the valedictory function. Preparations included village visits for orientation, listing activities, sharing responsibilities, and preparing implementation plans.
Day 1 – 17th April 2024: Inaugural Program
The inaugural program featured esteemed guests such as Mrs. Anjana Kumbhar, Deputy Sarpanch Kasaba Beed, and Hon. Shri Mahesh Khade, Gram Vikas Adhikari. An afternoon rally on environmental sustainability and water conservation was followed by the distribution of camp invitations to villagers.
Day 2 – 18th April 2024: Eye Check-Up Camp, Women Empowerment, Digital Survey
A morning eye check-up camp in collaboration with Gajanan Eye Care Centre provided essential healthcare services to villagers. Concurrently, a women's empowerment training program on small-scale business, focusing on artificial jewellery making, was conducted in collaboration with Mandeshi Foundation. Additionally, a digital survey on Sustainable Development Goals and the village profile was carried out.
Day 3 – 19th April 2024: Awareness of Social Welfare Schemes
Morning sessions focused on raising awareness about social welfare schemes, particularly those related to students. Street plays on voter awareness and TB control were performed in the afternoon, effectively disseminating information among the villagers.
Day 4 – 20th April 2024: Valedictory Function
The camp concluded with a valedictory function, which included the felicitation of the newly elected Deputy Sarpanch, a prize distribution ceremony, and a review of the camp by villagers.
The Rural Camp proved to be an invaluable learning experience for social work trainees. They gained insights into the socio-economic, cultural, and educational aspects of rural life in Kasaba Beed. The camp facilitated the development of professional skills such as leadership, communication, teamwork, and organization. Additionally, students successfully applied social work methods in practice, including conducting surveys and interacting with villagers. The camp fostered a sense of teamwork and community engagement among participants, contributing to their overall personal and professional growth.
In conclusion, the Rural Camp 2024 at Kasaba Beed met its objectives and provided a comprehensive learning experience for MSW I Year students. It not only addressed the core principles of social work but also contributed to the sustainable development of the rural community.
