The Department of Social Work,Mercy College, Palakkad organized educational observation visit to IntegratedRural Technology Centre, Mundur, Palakkad and Shanthal Sadhan, Muttikulangaraon 12th August 2025as part of the academic curriculum to expose students to real-time social workpractices and intervention models in various institutional settings. At IRTC,the students were warmly welcomed and given an orientation by Mr. A.Raghavan, Registrar, who briefed them on the institution’s vision,objectives, and operational framework. He explained the various research anddevelopment initiatives undertaken by IRTC to address rural needs throughtechnological innovations. Following the session, the students visited severalsub-departments and project sites including the waste management unit, biogas plant, pottery unit, aquaponicssystem, and other eco-friendly initiatives. Each unit providedpractical demonstrations and explanations, enabling students to understand theapplication of sustainable technologies in improving rural livelihoods andprotecting the environment.
In the second phase of theobservation visit, the students proceeded to Mother Chantal Sadhan, an old age home. The students interactedwith the residents, offering companionship and engaging in conversations tounderstand their life experiences. They also organized recreational activities such as singing, games, and groupentertainment, which created a joyful and warm atmosphere among the inmates.These interactions helped the students to develop empathy, communicationskills, and a deeper understanding of the emotional and social needs of elderlyindividuals. The program coordinated by Ms. Aswathy S, faculty coordinator, Ms.Keerthi U and Ms. Jincy N, student coordinators.
