Educational Visit to Nandoor Gram Panchayat

An educational visit was organized for 30 students (Undergraduate and Postgraduate) from the Faculty of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences, accompanied by 5 faculty members, to Nandoor village on 4^th April 2026.  The primary objective of this visit was to provide students with practical exposure to grassroots institutions and to help them understand the functioning of rural governance, education systems, and community development initiatives. The visit served as an opportunity to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world practices. The visit included 2 UG students, 18 PG students and 18 Research Scholars.

The students visited several key institutions in the village, including the Government Primary and High School, the Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS) Centre (Aanganwadi Kendra), Self-Help Group (SHG) centre, and the Gram Panchayat Office. Each visit offered valuable insights into different aspects of rural life and administration.

The first stop was the Government Primary and High School, where the students met the Headmaster, Mr. Bandenawaz. He provided a detailed overview of the school’s functioning, including the admission process, student enrollment, and attendance. The discussion also covered the implementation of the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, which plays a significant role in improving student nutrition and encouraging school attendance. The headmaster explained the facilities available in the school, such as sports infrastructure, drinking water, and sanitation arrangements. Students were able to observe the school environment and understand the challenges faced in delivering quality education in rural areas, including limited resources and infrastructural constraints. This interaction helped students appreciate the importance of government initiatives in promoting education at the grassroots level.

The next visit was to the Gram Panchayat Office, where students interacted with Panchayat Secretary Mr. Rachayya Swami, Village Accountant Mr. Mallu Wallikar, and Panchayat staff member Mr. Santosh among others. The officials explained the structure and functioning of the Panchayat system and discussed various issues related to village administration. Topics such as sanitation, housing schemes, pension distribution, and employment opportunities under government programs were covered in detail. The officials also addressed challenges faced in governance, including resource allocation and public participation. This session provided students with practical insights into local governance and the implementation of public policies at the village level.

The next visit was to the Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS) Centre, also known as the Aanganwadi Kendra, where the students interacted with the teacher, Mrs. Babamma. She explained the various schemes implemented under ICDS, focusing on child welfare, nutrition, and early childhood education. The discussion included details about beneficiaries, such as children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. Mrs. Babamma elaborated on the role and importance of Aanganwadi centres in addressing issues related to child development, malnutrition, and women’s health. Special attention was given to adolescent girls’ health and awareness programs. Students gained a deeper understanding of how government policies are implemented at the grassroots level and how these centres contribute to the overall development of the community.

The final component of the visit involved interaction with a Self-Help Group (SHG) led by Mrs. Prabhavati and other members. The SHG members shared their experiences and explained how such groups function as instruments of women empowerment. They discussed how members contribute savings, access loans, and manage financial activities collectively. The process of loan distribution and its significance in supporting small businesses and household needs was explained in detail. Students learned how SHGs promote financial independence, self-reliance, and confidence among rural women. The interaction highlighted the social and economic impact of SHGs in improving the status of women and fostering community development.

Throughout the visit, the students were highly interactive and actively engaged with the officials and community members. They asked relevant questions, participated in discussions, and showed keen interest in understanding the functioning of each institution. The visit encouraged critical thinking and helped students relate their academic learning to real-life situations.

At the end of the visit, students were required to prepare and submit detailed reports based on their observations and interactions. This exercise further reinforced their learning and allowed them to reflect on the experiences gained during the visit.

Overall, the educational visit to Nandoor village was highly informative and enriching. It provided students with a comprehensive understanding of rural governance, education systems, and community-based initiatives. By observing and interacting with various stakeholders, students were able to gain firsthand knowledge of how policies and programs are implemented at the grassroots level. The visit successfully connected theoretical concepts with practical realities, thereby enhancing the students’ academic and experiential learning.

Ms. Rabia Coordinator, Dept of Psychology, Dr. Atungbou Coordinator, Dept of Sociology, Dr. Tajuddin MD Asst Prof, Dept of Political Science, Dr. Azmat Khan Asst Prof, Dept of Sociology, Mr. Yogesh Rathod Guest Faculty, Dept of History accompanied the students.

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