NEISSR BSW trainees at the rural camp in Shoixe village.
Chümoukedima, February 5 (MExN): Fourth semester trainees of the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) programme of the North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR), Chümoukedima, conducted a ten-day rural camp at Shoixe village under Sataka block in Zunheboto district from January 27 to February 5.
The rural camp was organised as an integral component of the institute’s fieldwork and community engagement requirements, with the objective of providing trainees with experiential learning in rural development processes, participatory research methods and community organisation.
During the camp period, the trainees undertook Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) exercises to understand the village profile, available resources and prevailing living conditions. The PRA activities included social mapping, seasonal mapping, resource mapping, matrix ranking and timeline exercises. Home visits were conducted to facilitate direct interaction with households and to obtain insights into the socio-economic conditions of the community. A socio-economic survey of selected households was also carried out as part of the academic requirements.
The trainees also conducted an awareness programme on drug addiction, highlighting its social, health and economic consequences and emphasising preventive measures and community responsibility in addressing substance abuse.
As part of community development initiatives, the trainees assisted villagers in clearing forest land. A cleanliness drive was undertaken in collaboration with the NSS Unit, NEISSR, during which dustbins were installed at selected locations in the village to promote sanitation and environmental awareness. A sports meet was organised during the camp, which saw active participation from both villagers and trainees. A picnic was also organised to promote peer bonding, teamwork and mental well-being among the trainees.
On February 4, 2026, the trainees observed World Cancer Day. The camp concluded with a cultural programme themed “Celebrating Culture, Unity and Community”, which featured cultural performances, folklore presentations, a talk on the preservation of indigenous culture, and special performances by trainees and community members.
The rural camp enabled the trainees to gain first-hand exposure to rural life, strengthen their understanding of community processes and apply social work methods in field settings.
The institute placed on record its appreciation to the Shoixe Village Council, Village Development Board, Church authorities, Youth Forum, Students’ Union and residents of Shoixe village for their cooperation and support in the successful conduct of the rural camp.
