Transforming Perspectives: A Journey to Sikles for Social Work Learning 

17 Apr, 2025

Social work is more than a profession—it is a calling that thrives beyond textbooks and classrooms. It lives in conversations with people, in understanding cultures, and in walking the very paths of those, we aim to support. That spirit came alive during a recent psychosocial fieldwork camp in Sikles, a peaceful Gurung village tucked away in the Kaski District of Nepal. For the 3rd-year students of the Bachelor in Social Work (BASW) program, this wasn’t just a field trip—it was a transformative journey that brought classroom theories face-to-face with the real world. 

Perched at 2,000 meters above sea level, Sikles is not just scenic—it is storied. Once known as Chili-Nasaa in the Gurung language, meaning “Village of Gauthali” (a local bird), Sikles is a living canvas of Nepal’s cultural richness and resilience. During our stay, we did not just observe the village—we became part of its rhythm. We lived the culture, shared meals, heard stories, and gained firsthand insight into the strengths and struggles of this proud Gurung community. 

The camp focused on providing hands-on training in psychosocial support and community engagement. It aimed to help us apply academic knowledge in real-world settings while deepening their understanding of rural challenges like caste discrimination, mental health issues, and inadequate infrastructure. 

Our time in Sikles was shape by a series of powerful, hands-on activities that brought our learning to life. We began with community visits and case studies, where we had the chance to speak directly with local residents, listen to their stories, and gain a deeper understanding of their daily lives and the challenges they face. Through social mapping, we collaborated with local leaders to identify key resources and explore the village’s social structure, which gave us a clearer picture of how the community functions. One of the most fulfilling parts of the camp was career counseling for Grade 10 students—we conducted personality tests and offered guidance to help them reflect on their strengths and think about their future paths. We also took part in self-healing sessions, using activities like doodling and guided meditation to connect with ourselves and process our emotions throughout the journey. Finally, through creative drama, we portrayed social issues such as caste bias and gaps in education, using role-play and storytelling to spark meaningful conversations within the community. Each of these experiences not only deepened our understanding of social work but also left a lasting impact on us personally. Concepts related to human behavior, community psychology, and social work principles came alive as we engaged directly with individuals and groups facing real challenges. 

We learned the value of empathetic listening and cultural sensitivity, especially while working with diverse communities and addressing sensitive topics like caste-based discrimination and mental health. The experience also taught us the importance of adaptability and collaboration, as we had to adjust our approaches based on the community’s unique dynamics and needs. On a personal level, the camp encouraged self-awareness and emotional resilience through reflective activities like meditation and creative expression. Professionally, we developed skills in case study analysis, social mapping, counseling, and group facilitation, which are essential tools for any social worker. 

In terms of achievements, we successfully conducted several interactive sessions, including career counseling for school students, awareness raising through drama, and effective collaboration with community leaders. Most importantly, we built genuine connections with the people of Sikles, creating a space for mutual learning and shared growth. The camp not only enriched our understanding of rural social issues but also strengthened our commitment to making a meaningful impact through social work. 

The fieldwork camp in Sikles was not just an academic assignment—it was a life lesson. It taught the future social workers how to listen, adapt, and connect. It showed us that transformation does not always happen in theory—it happens in villages, in dialogues, and in moments of shared humanity. For both, the Gurung community, and us this experience was a two-way exchange—a journey of empathy, resilience, and hope. The psychosocial fieldwork camp in Sikles was a truly transformative experience—both personally and professionally. It provided us with a rare opportunity to step out of the classroom and immerse ourselves in the realities of rural life, where we could directly apply our knowledge and skills. Through meaningful engagement with the Gurung community, we gained a deeper understanding of the social, cultural, and psychological factors that shape people’s lives. 

The camp challenged us to think critically, act compassionately, and reflect deeply. It strengthened our confidence as aspiring social workers and taught us the importance of empathy, adaptability, and respectful collaboration. More than just a field exercise, the camp became a journey of self-growth, cultural exchange, and community connection.  

Ultimately, the experience reaffirmed our belief that real learning happens when we connect theory with practice—and when we open ourselves to learning from the communities we aim to serve. The lessons we carried back from Sikles will continue to guide us on our path toward becoming socially conscious, compassionate, and effective professionals. 

During my time in Sikles, I saw the importance of prioritizing mental health awareness and youth education. I believe investing in these areas can truly empower individuals and strengthen the community as a whole. I also recommend that the community advocate for better infrastructure, including roads, internet access, and healthcare facilities, as these are essential for sustainable development. At the same time, I encourage Sikles to preserve its rich Gurung culture while embracing positive aspects of modernization—a balance that can enrich both identity and progress. 

Based on my experience, I strongly feel that academic institutions should offer more comprehensive pre-camp training, especially focusing on cultural dynamics, ethical engagement, and community interaction. Such preparation would allow students like me to enter the field with greater confidence and respect. I also hope institutions will create more immersive learning opportunities in rural areas, as they offer powerful lessons that go far beyond classroom learning. 

To those who will follow in these footsteps, I encourage you to reflect deeply on your field experiences—there is so much to learn if we’re open to it. Be willing to adapt, stay creative, and think critically when faced with challenges. Most importantly, don’t let your engagement with communities end when the camp does. Continue building connections, listening, and learning, because our role as social workers extends far beyond assignments and academic timelines. 

Sumita Shrestha 

BSW 2078 Batch