Rural Fair Near Ludhiana Marks Culmination of 50-Day Work Experience Programme
The vibrant Budhel village near Ludhiana transformed into a hub of creativity and community spirit as Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) concluded its 50-day Rural Awareness Work Experience programme with a lively Rural Women Fair. This event, organized by the Department of Extension Education and Communication Management, served as a heartfelt celebration of rural resilience and innovation, bringing together students, villagers, and academic leaders in a display of shared learning and empowerment.
Student-Led Initiatives and Community Integration
For seven weeks, final-year students from the BSc (Hons) Community Science programme immersed themselves in the daily lives of 35 families in Budhel village. They went beyond traditional academic roles, fostering deep connections while imparting crucial knowledge on water-saving techniques, energy conservation, and anti-drug awareness. This hands-on approach allowed students to weave themselves into the social fabric, turning an educational exercise into a transformative community experience.
Exhibition of Innovations and Skills
The fair became a dynamic showcase of the programme's impact, featuring a diverse array of exhibits. Students presented their innovative projects, including nutritious food displays and educational games for children, while village women proudly displayed crafts and recipes learned during the programme. Highlights included garments reimagined through value addition and household items crafted from recycled materials, reflecting PAU's mission to enhance everyday life through science and creativity.
Voices from the Village: Stories of Transformation
Three village women shared their personal journeys, highlighting the programme's tangible benefits. Balwinder Kaur expressed pride in turning old clothes into useful bags and aprons, inspiring her daughters. Gurmeet Kaur praised the water-saving kit as a blessing that made her more conscious of conservation. Sukhwinder Kaur revealed newfound entrepreneurial hope, planning to start a pickle-making venture for sale. Their testimonials underscored the fair's role in boosting confidence and fostering self-reliance.
Leadership Support and Future Prospects
Ritu Mittal Gupta, head of the department and chief guest, commended the students' dedication and encouraged women to leverage their skills for entrepreneurship. She emphasized the university's ongoing support for rural ventures, urging participants to learn, train, and initiate their own businesses. The event facilitated meaningful conversations between villagers and students, spreading ideas that could reshape daily practices and promote sustainable development in the region.
