An experience like no other

Five UQ social work students have returned home from a unique international placement experience working with tribal communities in rural India.

The students, from the School of Social Work and Human Services, travelled to India in July to begin a 15-week field education placement as part of their final year studies in the Bachelor of Social Work.

Based in North Andra Pradesh, the students teamed up with local community aid organisation, Laya, to assist Indigenous tribal people to engage in community development projects such as creating sustainability, land alienation and human rights, decentralised energy options and climate change.

School of Social Work and Human Services Field Education Unit manager Mark Cleaver said the experience of working at the grassroots level with the Adivasi communities provided an opportunity for self discovery for all five students.

“It also provided a chance for critical reflection on social work and community work practice in a truly international setting. All of which is fundamental learning for good social work practice,” Mr Cleaver said.

“We are thrilled to offer such an exciting and enriching educational experience for our students.

“An international placement such as this provides our final year students with a whole new perspective on practicing social work – it is a wonderful component of our program.”

Social work student Duong Dang said the placement experience exceeded all expectations.

“My time in India has been a rich and meaningful journey. I have enhanced my personal and professional development and I feel have gained more self confidence as an emerging practitioner,” Ms Dang said.

“Sharing stories, and engaging with Adivasi communities in a dialogue about their concerns, issues and aspirations has been a highlight of my experience.”

Due to the success of the placement in India, it is anticipated the School of Social Work and Human Services will continue to provide further international opportunities for field placements in India in the future.

For more information about field education, click here.

Media: Helen Battle (07 3346 9279, h.battle@uq.edu.au)