LEH: Students of the Master of Social Work (Disability Studies and Action) programme at the University of Ladakh undertook a field exposure tour to the Ladakh Ecological Development Group (LEDeG) and HelpAge India, Leh, on Sunday, gaining first-hand insights into sustainable development initiatives, environmental management and social welfare services.
Organised by the Department of Social Work as part of the academic curriculum, the one-day visit involved students from the second and fourth semesters and was aimed at strengthening their understanding of field-based social work practice through direct engagement with development and welfare organisations.
At LEDeG, students were introduced to the organisation’s work in sustainable development and environmental conservation. Executive Director Eshey Tundup briefed them on the institution’s vision, objectives and contributions towards addressing developmental and ecological challenges in Ladakh.
Project Manager Azma outlined LEDeG’s interventions in urban development, waste management and environmental conservation, highlighting the need for sustainable approaches to development in the ecologically sensitive Himalayan region.
The students later visited HelpAge India, Leh, where Manager Dawa Zangpo provided an overview of programmes dedicated to the welfare of older persons. He spoke about initiatives related to healthcare, advocacy, age-care services and livelihood support, while also discussing the social and economic challenges faced by senior citizens.
The interactions enabled students to observe how community-based organisations design and implement programmes addressing environmental concerns and social welfare needs. Faculty members said the exposure visit offered an opportunity to connect classroom learning with practical field realities and understand the role of social workers in development interventions.
The Department of Social Work stated that the tour enhanced students’ understanding of sustainable development, community engagement, environmental management and welfare services, while providing valuable exposure to professional social work practice.
The programme was coordinated by Ms. Nargis Banoo and accompanied by faculty members of the Department of Social Work.
The Department also expressed gratitude to Vice-Chancellor Prof. Saket Kushwaha for his continued support in promoting experiential learning and facilitating field-based educational opportunities for students of the University.
