BENGALURU, ApPril 7 – In a commendable demonstration of academic fieldwork translating into real-world impact, Master of Social Work (MSW) students from St. Joseph’s University have undertaken a series of community development initiatives across Bengaluru, significantly improving the lives of residents in marginalized and underserved areas.
Under the mentorship of Dr. Premajyothi D, faculty supervisor at the School of Social Work, the students implemented structured programs targeting healthcare accessibility, gender empowerment, child nutrition, environmental sustainability, and inclusive livelihood development. The initiatives were carried out in collaboration with several reputed partner organizations, ensuring a holistic and multi-stakeholder approach.
Bridging Gaps in Healthcare Access
Focusing on underserved migrant populations, the students organized Early Cancer Detection and Ophthalmological Screening Camps in collaboration with Sangama and Nayonika Eye Care. These camps provided essential preventive healthcare services, registering 40 individuals for cancer screening and 50 for eye examinations. Of these, 30 individuals in need of vision correction received free eyeglasses, ensuring timely interventions and referrals to primary healthcare systems.
Promoting Gender Equity and Educational Awareness
At the hilltop informal settlement in Chinnappa Garden, students conducted awareness sessions on reproductive health, gender empowerment, and the role of education in social mobility. These interactive sessions were held in association with the Indian Social Institute and engaged local women and children in meaningful dialogue on gender rights and educational aspirations.
Enhancing Child Nutrition Awareness
In partnership with the Environmental Foundation of India (EFI), the students facilitated nutritional education workshops aimed at children. Through gamified learning methods, the sessions highlighted the dangers of junk food and the importance of balanced diets, fostering health-positive behavioral change at an early age.
Fostering Environmental Stewardship
Sustainability initiatives included seed ball making workshops and environmental sensitization drives, also conducted in collaboration with EFI. These activities encouraged community participation in biodiversity conservation and promoted a culture of ecological responsibility.
Empowering Marginalized Groups through Livelihood Training
Students organized skill-building sessions for adults with autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disabilities, focusing on employability and vocational training. Conducted with the support of the Diya Foundation, these programs aimed to enhance workplace readiness and challenge prevailing social stigmas around disability.
Additionally, in Anepalya slum, youth empowerment programs connected participants to caregiver nursing courses, equipping them with job-relevant healthcare skills and pathways to employment.
Supporting Women Entrepreneurs
As part of International Women’s Day celebrations, an event at CGI Bangalore showcased entrepreneurial ventures by underprivileged women. Handcrafted hemp bags were exhibited, highlighting both environmental sustainability and women-led economic empowerment.
A Model for Community-Driven Transformation
These multifaceted initiatives reflect the commitment of St. Joseph’s University to community-engaged learning. The MSW students’ work stands as a testament to the power of academic programs in fostering social responsibility and driving grassroots transformation.
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