Bhopal: In a transformative eight-day study tour, 23 students from The Bhopal School of Social Sciences (BSSS), accompanied by faculty members Sr. Lourdand Mr. Atul Vishwakarma, explored various social organizations in Ajmer. The tour aimed to provide students with practical insights into social work and community development.
The first stop was DISHA – RCDSSS, the social service wing of Ajmer Diocese. The organization, committed to serving the marginalized, showcased projects like Knowledge Hut, Diksha, and Women-Led Bakery, emphasizing education and women’s development. Next on the itinerary was Dayanand Bal Sadan, a non-government organization dedicated to orphan children. The students then visited the Sadbhavana Centre for Specially-Abled Children, which focuses on integral development through therapies and exercises, enabling specially-abled children to integrate into mainstream society.
Rajasthan Mahila Kalyan Mandal, a voluntary organization inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s principles, was the fourth destination. The organization works to improve the lives of underprivileged communities and the disabled. At Sophia Girls College, Ajmer, students participated in a seminar organized by the Sociology department. The seminar, titled ‘Exploring the Dimensions of Social Work,’ featured resource persons who spoke on various aspects of social work, including the use of technology, human resource development, gender equality, and women empowerment.
A field visit to the village of Shyamgarh (Masooda) highlighted the efforts of DISHA-RCDSSS in women empowerment through goat farming. The students interacted with local women who shared their experiences and the positive impact of joining the empowerment group. The tour also included visits to the Jawahar Foundation, an NGO working towards sustainable solutions, and Spinning and Weaving Mills (RSWM), part of the esteemed LNJ Bhilwara Group.
After the enriching organizational visits, the students had a two-day outing exploring historical and cultural sites, including Taragarh Fort, Ajmer Palace, Ajmer Sharif Dargah, local markets, Pushkar City, Jaipur’s City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and Amer Fort.The study tour concluded on October 10, 2023, with students returning to Bhopal with a wealth of experiences, newfound knowledge, and cherished memories that will undoubtedly shape their future endeavors in the field of social work.
