The PG Department of Social Work, GEMS Arts and Science College (Autonomous), Ramapuram, organized a Faculty Exchange Program with St. Mary’s College, Puthanangadi, along with an orientation session on Social Work specialization on 18th August 2025 at M.P. Narayanamenon Hall from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM.
The program began with welcome speech done by Ms. Shahma P P, 3rd sem MSW student, along with a brief introduction, highlighting the significance of specialization selection in professional Social Work practice. The session was handled by Mr. Jaseel P. J., Assistant Professor and Head, Department of Social Work, St. Mary’s College, Puthanangadi, and Mr. Aravind K. R., Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, GEMS Arts and Science College, Ramapuram.
The orientation titled “Choose Your Right Path: Orientation on Social Work Specialization” aimed to provide students with clarity and guidance in making an informed decision regarding their specialization area. The sessions were highly interactive, with students actively engaging in discussions and clarifying their doubts.
Mr. Aravind K. R. provided a detailed session on the Community Development specialization. He highlighted the importance of community-based interventions, participatory approaches, and the role of social workers in promoting sustainable development, empowerment, and social justice at the grassroots level.
Following this, Mr. Jaseel P. J. delivered an insightful orientation on the Medical and Psychiatric Social Work specialization, explaining its scope, relevance in the healthcare sector, and career opportunities available for students opting for this stream. He emphasized the professional roles of social workers in hospitals, mental health settings, rehabilitation centers, and clinical practice.
A total of 20 third-semester MSW students participated in the program. The event successfully met its objective of providing professional insights and practical guidance on specialization choices, thereby helping students align their academic interests with their career aspirations. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Fathima Najwa N 3rd sem MSW student.