Ranchi University: Fostering Rural Development Through Comprehensive Programs
Overview of Rural Development Courses
Ranchi University, a prestigious institution in Jharkhand, has been at the forefront of educating and training students in the field of rural development. The university offers several programs aimed at preparing students to become effective catalysts for rural development and empowerment of marginalized communities.
#### M.A in Rural Development
The M.A in Rural Development at Ranchi University is a two-year postgraduate course designed to equip students with the theoretical and practical knowledge necessary for working in rural development. This course, part of the faculty of Social Science, includes core courses such as "Rural Development: Theories, Models and Approaches," "Social Institutions in Rural India," and "Rural Development Programmes in India".
A key component of this program is the Rural Training Programme, which involves field work practicum. Students are required to stay in rural areas for 21 days, where they conduct meetings with local people, organize awareness camps on education and health, and collaborate with governmental and non-governmental organizations. This hands-on approach helps students develop professional skills essential for their future roles.
Recent Field Work Initiatives
Recently, students enrolled in the rural development course at Ranchi University embarked on a field work assignment in Simdega district. This initiative is part of the curriculum's emphasis on practical learning, where students gain firsthand experience in addressing the social, economic, and political issues faced by rural communities. The students were accompanied by their field in-charge and engaged in various activities aimed at understanding and resolving local issues.
Other Programs in Rural Development
In addition to the M.A program, Ranchi University also offers a 2-year M.A./M.Sc. in Rural Development and Management (RDM). This interdisciplinary program focuses on blending socio-political analysis with strategies to enable marginalized communities to claim their entitlements and rights. The program aims to develop a cadre of development practitioners who can effectively respond to contemporary concerns in rural areas.
Unique Learning Opportunities
For those who cannot leave their current jobs to pursue higher education, the Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda University (RKMVU) in Ranchi offers a one-year PG Diploma in Rural Development Practices (RDP) in a blended mode (online and offline). This program allows learners to operate as community development practitioners while continuing their jobs, with theory classes conducted over weekends and a compulsory seven-day on-campus orientation program.
Infrastructure and Facilities
Ranchi University is well-equipped to support the educational and practical needs of its students. The university boasts Wi-Fi-enabled classrooms, smart boards, good libraries, separate computer laboratories, common rooms for both boys and girls, gym facilities, cafeterias, and sports grounds. Additionally, the university provides hostels for some students, although there have been some concerns regarding discipline in these facilities.
Ongoing Issues and Protests
Despite the robust programs and facilities, Ranchi University is currently facing issues related to the payment of honorarium to guest teachers. The guest teachers have been on protest for 16 months, demanding their pending honorarium, which has highlighted some of the administrative challenges the university is facing.
In conclusion, Ranchi University remains a significant institution in the realm of rural development education, offering comprehensive and practical programs that prepare students to make a meaningful impact in rural communities. While the university navigates through administrative challenges, its commitment to rural development education remains unwavering.