Department of Social Work

An expert lecture on “Clinical Skills in Social Work: Case History Taking and Mental Status Examination” was organized on 19th March 2026 at 08:30 PM for MSW students. The session aimed to enhance students’ practical understanding and clinical competencies in psychiatric social work. The programme commenced with a welcome speech delivered by Asfina Fabi K T, a first-year MSW student, at 08:30 PM. She warmly welcomed the resource person and participants, setting a positive tone for the session.
The expert lecture began at 08:35 PM and was handled by Mr. Muhammed Rashid E, M.Phil. Trainee in Psychiatric Social Work at the Central Institute of Psychiatry, Ranchi. The session focused on the essential clinical skills required in social work practice, particularly case history taking and mental status examination (MSE).
The resource person provided a detailed explanation of the structure and components of case history, emphasizing the importance of systematic data collection, client engagement, and ethical considerations. He also elaborated on the various domains of mental status examination, including appearance, behavior, speech, mood, thought, perception, cognition, and insight. Practical examples and case illustrations were used to make the session interactive and easy to understand. Students actively engaged in the session by asking questions and clarifying their doubts. A total of 30 students participated in the programme, benefiting from the expert insights and practical knowledge shared during the session.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Nishiya C, a second-year MSW student, at 10:00 PM. She expressed gratitude to the resource person for the informative session and appreciated the active participation of students.

The PG Department of Social Work, GEMS Arts and Science College, Ramapuram, organized the Alumni Lecture Series – 14 on 16th March 2026 from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM via Google Meet on the topic “Role of Social Worker as a Life Skill Educator." The programme began with a welcome by Fathima Rinsha, first-year MSW student. The session was led by alumna Alby Thomas (2020–2022 batch), Life Skills Educator at Magic Bus India Foundation, Kochi, who provided valuable insights into the role of social workers in promoting essential life skills such as communication, decision-making, and problem-solving, along with sharing practical field experiences. A total of 18 participants attended and actively engaged in the interactive session. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Ansha Shaji, first-year MSW student, expressing gratitude to the resource person, faculty, and participants.

In connection with Human Rights Day, the Anti Human Trafficking Club, in association with the PG Department of Social Work and the Kerala Association of Professional Social Workers (KAPS), Malappuram Chapter, organized an Expert Talk on Human Rights on 10th December 2025 at 9:30 AM in MP Narayana Menon Hall, GEMS Arts and Science College, Ramapuram. The programme was conducted on the theme “Redefining Human Rights in a Changing Society.” A total of 57 students participated in the session.
The expert session was led by Dr. Anshad Kulathur, Consultant, ICMR Research, SHSRC-K, and Vice President, KAPS Malappuram Chapter, who delivered an informative and thought-provoking talk on the evolving concept of human. Rights He discussed contemporary human rights concerns and the increasing responsibility of social workers and young professionals in safeguarding human dignity and justice.
The programme began with a welcome address by Ms. Anitha Parveen J, Coordinator of the Anti-Human Trafficking Club and Head, PG Department of Social Work, who highlighted the importance of observing Human Rights Day and the relevance of the topic in the present social scenario. Ms. Priya Varrier, Psycho Social Counsellor, GHSS, Kunnakkavu, and Treasurer, KAPS Malappuram Chapter, felicitated the programme. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Sarath K, Department Programme Faculty Coordinator and Assistant Professor, PG Department of Social Work.
The programme contributed significantly to increasing students’ awareness of basic human rights, enhancing their understanding of current human rights issues, and motivating them to actively engage in human rights protection and advocacy, thereby reinforcing the values of social justice and professional responsibility among future social work practitioners. Overall, the programme successfully met the expected outcomes.

The PG Department of Social Work organized a mime performance on 24 November 2025 in observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The program aimed to raise awareness about the various forms of violence faced by women and to encourage reflection among the campus community. Six first-year MSW students performed the mime, while 12 others handled planning, coordination, and logistical preparations. The performance depicted key issues such as physical and emotional abuse within marriage, acid attacks linked to relationship conflicts, and safety challenges women encounter in public spaces. Through expressive movement and symbolic scenes, the mime highlighted the emotional and social impact of these forms of violence. The program was conducted from 1.20 PM to 1.30 PM and concluded with a poster presentation summarizing the significance of the day and reinforcing the call to address gender-based violence. Students, staff, and faculty from multiple departments attended the event and responded actively to the presentation. Overall, the initiative effectively used creative expression to draw attention to the realities of violence against women and the need for collective responsibility in preventing such acts.

The Alumni Lecture Series 10 was conducted on 26/11/2025, focusing on 'Strategic Approaches to Overcome Exam Fear and Achieve Quality Performance'. The session was held in Room no. 902, PG Block, from 10 am to 11 am. The resource person, Hiba P, a 6th Rank Holder in MSW (2023-2025 batch) from Calicut University, shared her insights and strategies for managing exam fear.The session aimed to address the pressing issue of exam fear among students, particularly after the 1st semester exam results, where most students attained minimum marks. The program objectives included understanding the causes and effects of exam fear, learning effective strategic techniques to manage it, and motivating students for sustained academic success. Fathima Rinsha K, a 1st-year MSW student, delivered the welcome address, and Jubairiyya T proposed the vote of thanks.Hiba P shared her personal experiences and emphasized the importance of effective time management, positive self-talk, and relaxation techniques in overcoming exam fear. The session was well-received, with students actively participating in the Q&A session and seeking tips to improve their academic performance. Overall, the Alumni Lecture Series 10 was a success, providing students with valuable insights and practical strategies to overcome exam fear and achieve quality performance.

Students of the Department of Social Work, GEMS Arts and Science College (Autonomous), Ramapura, Malappuram actively participated in a baseline survey conducted under the SVEEP (Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation) program of the Election Commission of India, organized by the Centre for Management Development (CMD), Thiruvananthapuram. An orientation session for the participants was held on 23rd September 2025 at St. Joseph’s College (Autonomous), Devagiri, where they received instructions and guidelines regarding the survey procedures. The students - Shahana Sherin, Mushfira, and Jubairiya, began data collection on 28th September 2025 and successfully completed it on 11th October 2025. The survey was carried out in various regions of Malappuram District, including Nilambur Municipality, Malappuram Municipality, Kuttilangadi Panchayath, Kondotty Municipality, Cherukavu Panchayath, Kodur Panchayath, Tirur Municipality, Thirunnavaya Panchayath, and Mankada Panchayath. A total of 239 surveys were completed, exceeding the assigned target of 228. Individually, Shahana Sherin collected 83 responses, Jubairiya collected 80, and Mushfira collected 76. Through this field engagement, the students gained valuable experience in community-based data collection, enhanced their research and communication skills, and contributed to a national effort aimed at promoting voter awareness, electoral literacy, and democratic participation.

The PG Department of Social Work organized a program in connection with World Mental Health Day on October 14, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 4:15 PM. The event aimed to create awareness among students about the importance of mental health and emotional well-being. Awareness sessions were held in each class focusing on mental health, stress management, and the importance of seeking help. A Google Form survey was conducted to assess students’ mental health status, and an exhibition displayed charts, posters, and slogans on mental health awareness. Interactive games, activities, and a video creation added creativity and engagement. Around 35 MSW first- and second-year students participated. Overall, the program was informative, engaging, and effective in promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma.

In observance of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty on 17/10/2025 , the PG Department of Social Work organized a debate on the topic “Do Government Welfare schemes create dependency rather than Empowerment. The program was held from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., featuring engaging discussions on various aspects of the topic. Coordinator Fatima Anfal gave the introduction and instructions for the debate, setting the tone for an insightful session. The event concluded with remarks by Coordinator Pavithra, who summarized the key points and appreciated the participants for their thoughtful contributions. The debate provided a meaningful platform for students to critically examine the impact of government welfare programs on empowerment and dependency.

The PG Department of Social Work conducted Alumni Lecture Series 9 on October 17, 2025, at Room 902, PG Block, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. The event brought together 34 MSW students from 1st and 2nd year, who gathered to explore the pivotal role of social workers in educational settings. The session was expertly led by the esteemed resource person, Riswana Thasni K, who shared her wealth of knowledge and experiences with the attendees.

The program commenced with a warm and engaging welcome address by Fathima Anfal, a 2nd-year MSW student, who set the tone for the event. This was followed by Riswana Thasni K's insightful lecture, which delved into the multifaceted contributions of social workers in educational settings. The resource person eloquently highlighted the various roles social workers play, the challenges they face, and the best practices they employ to make a positive impact.

The lecture was interactive, with attendees actively participating in the Q&A session, posing thoughtful questions, and sharing their perspectives. The session concluded with a sincere vote of thanks by Pavithra K, a 1st-year MSW student, who expressed her gratitude to the resource person and organizers for providing such a valuable learning experience.

Overall, the event was a great success, providing attendees with a deeper understanding of the critical role social workers play in educational settings. The Alumni Lecture Series 9 was a testament to the importance of knowledge sharing and professional development in the field of social work.

As part of the MSW curriculum, the Department of Social Work, GEMS Arts and Science College, Ramapuram, organized a seven-day Community Living Camp at Pinavoorkudy, Kuttampuzha Panchayat, Ernakulam District, from 22nd to 28th August 2025. The camp was designed as an intensive field-based program to foster direct interaction with tribal communities and to promote a deeper understanding of their socio-economic, cultural, and developmental contexts.
The camp provided trainees with opportunities to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical exposure in areas such as community development, rural governance, public health, education, and livelihood practices. By living in close association with the tribal community, trainees were able to observe and analyze grassroots realities, including challenges of poverty, limited infrastructure, dependence on forest produce, and preservation of indigenous traditions.
Key activities included orientation sessions, theater workshop, community visits, PRA exercises, social mapping, awareness initiatives, and cultural programs. These experiences not only enhanced professional competencies such as leadership, teamwork, participatory learning, communication, and problem-solving but also adaptability Overall, the Pinavoorkudy camp served as a transformative learning platform, strengthening the professional growth of MSW trainees.

The P.G. Department of Social Work organized a National NGO Visit for the 2nd year MSW students as part of the III Semester curriculum. The visit was held from 31st August 2025 to 11th September 2025. As part of the program, the students visited two major organizations in Kolkata. The first was the Durbar Mahila Samanwaya Committee (DMSC), which works for the welfare, safety, and empowerment of sex workers in Sonagachi, one of the largest red-light areas in the city.

The second visit was to Mother Teresa Tomp (Mother House), which holds great significance as Mother Teresa spent her last years there. The institution continues her legacy by carrying forward the charitable works she initiated, serving the poor, the sick, and the marginalized with compassion and dedication. Following the Kolkata visit, the team proceeded to Sikkim and Darjeeling, where they explored various social, cultural, and developmental aspects relevant to their academic learning. A total of 22 students and 2 faculty members actively participated in this visit, which provided valuable exposure and enriched the students’ professional and personal learning experience.