'Classroom-to-Community’ Initiative by Department of Social Work, Fakir Mohan University

Balasore, 22/8(Krushna Kumar Mohanty) The Department of Social Work, Fakir Mohan University, organized a field-based initiative titled ‘Classroom-to-Community Engagement’, led by postgraduate students of the department.

The primary objective of the program was to bridge theoretical learning with grassroots realities by engaging directly with community groups. As part of the initiative, first- and second-year students visited Makhapada village under Nilgiri Block, where they conducted awareness campaigns on health, hygiene, and social inclusion. These were presented through street plays and interactive discussions with villagers.

The awareness activities covered crucial issues such as seasonal health challenges during monsoons, sanitation and cleanliness, use of mosquito nets, first-aid practices for snakebites and reptile encounters, the importance of consulting doctors rather than relying on superstition, and preventive measures like using phenyl, bleaching powder, and DDT for maintaining a clean environment.

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Guided by departmental faculty, the students adopted a ‘learning by doing’ approach, linking classroom insights to real-life problem-solving. The initiative is expected to serve as a bridge between education and social service while nurturing empathy, leadership, and problem-solving skills among students with ultimately shaping them into socially responsible citizens.

In addition, the students carried out a village-level cleanliness drive, removing garbage, weeds, and stagnant waste to promote a healthier environment. Special emphasis was placed on raising awareness about dengue prevention and snakebite management.

The program was implemented under the guidance of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Santosh Kumar Tripathy and supervised by faculty members Ms. Rashmirekha Raut and Ms. Supriya Raut. Villagers warmly welcomed the initiative and expressed their gratitude to the students for their efforts.

Speaking on the occasion, the Vice-Chancellor remarked that such initiatives not only benefit the community but also enhance the skills and confidence of students. The Department has expressed its intent to organize similar programs regularly, strengthening the bond between academic learning and social transformation.