KKHSOU marks National Social Work week with health camps and mental well-being programmes

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaAugust 25, 2025

Krishna Kanta Handiqui State Open University (KKHSOU) observed National Social Work Week 2025 from August 18 to 21 with a series of initiatives focused on health and community care. Organised by the Discipline of Social Work, Surya Kumar Bhuyan School of Social Sciences, the programs carried the theme “Social Work in Health Settings: Bridging Care and Compassion.”

The observance began on August 18 with an online talk by Vivek Kumar Singh, Medical Social Service Officer at the National Cancer Institute, AIIMS. Drawing from his experience as a postgraduate from Banaras Hindu University, Singh highlighted how social workers play a vital role in patient advocacy and emotional support within healthcare. His insights, attended by over 100 students and faculty, encouraged participants to integrate empathy into their professional practice.

On August 19, KKHSOU, in collaboration with GNRC Sixmile and the Mother Teresa Social Welfare Mission, organised a free health camp at Andherijuli, Rani—an adopted village of the university. Doctors Gayatri Kalita and Mridupawan Dutta, along with nursing staff, conducted consultations for over 100 residents, with active involvement from local leaders and ASHA workers. The initiative promoted preventive healthcare and was widely appreciated by the community.

The week concluded on August 21 with a “Mental Health Matters” program at Madhya Kampeeth College, Borka. Sessions led by psychiatrist Dr. Samir Sarma and KKHSOU faculty addressed stigma, early intervention, and government mental health schemes. Nearly 100 students and community members participated, with cultural performances adding vibrancy to the event.

Altogether, the programs reached more than 200 people, advancing goals of health, equality, and poverty reduction. A KKHSOU spokesperson noted, “This observance reflects our dedication to transforming lives through compassionate care.”