School of Physiotherapy, RKU believes that for students to become successful professionals, better provision needs to be made for learning through experience in the world outside the classroom.

With an objective to enhance students’ learning and providing them dozens of opportunities to make learning concepts, real and relevant by putting them into a more realistic context an educational tour to The Schieffelin Institute of Health Research & Training Centre, Karigiri, Vellore, Tamil Nadu was planned for 8th semester Bachelors of physiotherapy students. Total 71 students accompanied by 5 faculties (Dr Amit Sharma, Dr Shweta Rakholiya, Dr Vaibhavi Ved, Dr Dheli Kadachha & Dr Viral Dhamecha) visited the Karigiri Training Centre for 3-day Training on Community Based Rehabilitation for Leprosy Patients who are free from the infection but still needs Rehabilitation. Thorough training was given on Leprosy Disease, its causes, clinical manifestations, investigatory methods, medical & surgical management. Hands on training for patient’s assessment procedures & rehabilitation including plastering of patient’s claw hands, prescribing of appropriate orthosis/splints & physiotherapy to maintain good quality of life of the patient.

The learning in the orthosis & prosthesis department regarding the making of the pro thesis for the amputees, manufacturing of the MCR (Microcellular Rubber) a cushion material from which they make foot wares for various patients aided in students’ practical learning.

Students had an opportunity to visit homes in the community where the institute had provided various employment modes to the disabled or rather “DIFFERENTLY ABLED” people through which they can earn their living.

Students also visited WORTH TRUST Factory which is one of the unique factory of its kind as 97% of the employees are “DIFFERENTLY ABLED,” it was worthy experience for the students to interact with them and see how they are making Brail Kits for visually impaired people (blind person) and making all sort of products like cycle chain cover, carriages etc. which we are using in our daily living. The trust also runs special school for speech & hearing impaired children and the physiotherapy unit and the instructor explain all aspect of pediatric disabled children which was the learning delight for the students.

At the end of 3rd day a valedictory function was arranged in which students were awarded certificates. It was a magnificent & inspiring learning experience for the final year students that improved student’s understanding, skills, values and personal development, significantly enhancing their learning and achievement.