In a landmark move for Telangana, the Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTSAU) is breaking new ground. For the first time in the state, it will introduce specialised skill-based courses focused on the care of the elderly. This initiative is being launched in partnership with the Government Home Science College.
Addressing a Critical Skill Gap
The university's flagship offering will be a comprehensive diploma programme in geriatric care. This course has been designed to fill a significant void, as Telangana has so far had no specialised academic or training programmes dedicated to elderly care. The curriculum will be delivered by a diverse faculty, including experts and practitioners from fields such as nursing, psychology, and social work.
Speaking about this expansion, university Vice-Chancellor Aldas Janaiah stated that PJTSAU is deliberately widening its academic focus beyond traditional farming domains. "We are embarking on a series of innovative initiatives aimed at improving farming practices," Janaiah told the media. He emphasised that the university's approach is not merely theoretical but also strongly focuses on the nutritional value of agricultural produce.
Why Specialised Training is Needed
The push for this programme came from direct observations by officials at the affiliated Government Home Science College. They identified a major shortfall in the competencies of caregivers currently working with the ageing population. Most manpower agencies were found to provide only basic training, covering tasks like giving injections or monitoring vital signs.
"Elderly care requires a far more comprehensive and sensitive skill set," explained Vice-Chancellor Janaiah, highlighting the gap between existing training and actual needs. This realisation was the catalyst for creating a dedicated, professional course to properly equip caregivers.
A Hub for Holistic Senior Care
The university's vision extends beyond the classroom. PJTSAU is also proposing to establish a dedicated wellness centre for senior citizens within Hyderabad. This centre will utilise buildings already owned by the university in the city.
"The wellness centre will function as a hub for our training programmes," Janaiah said. It is envisioned as a practical space where caregivers can learn to provide holistic support to the ageing population. The university plans to begin recruitment of staff for this ambitious initiative soon, marking a significant step towards structured geriatric care in Telangana.
