RobertoCalero
GHSA Workshops and Learning experience Photo Essay
During my Global Health Study Abroad journey, we had many lectures that ranged from the Indian Caste system to the work environment of Beedi workers. We, as students, learned a lot that, in routine visits to India, you would not have the opportunity to learn about, and for that, I am grateful. You learn a lot through lectures, but the best learning opportunity was talking to those living there. I was able to talk to the Sub-Inspector of a police department and listen firsthand to the way a police department functions in India; no book can teach personal experience like that. We learned how women live in India by speaking to various members of PHRII, which completely differs from the United States. This trip had diversion and many learning opportunities everyplace you went.
I was able to do something unique in India that being interviewing a Sub-Inspector the second in command at police stations. Most of the details are in the interview but it was interesting to see how reserved they are in talking to foreigners and about their profession all together.
This was my favorite workshop as it highlighted a topic that was of interest for me. I learned a lot about the world and how commercial sex trafficking works in a courtly like India as opposed to other countries.
This may look like an ordinary house but it was The Odanadi house for trafficked women. We had the unique opportunity to be able to listen and discus the topic of Sex trafficking with one of the founders of the organization as well as see where they help the women regain their identities. We also had a chance to speak to some of the residents of the house.
The JSS Ayurveda Medical College had unique forms of treatment some that at first glance would make you think it's a torture device but really has many benefits to your health. The best part is that most of the treatments here are free of charge.
These are the JSS Ayurveda different medicinal herbs, each of these herbs are used to help with different illnesses and some of them help with stress and most problems one has with their health. Some more examples include nasal issues, skin issues, digestion and many more. All of these herbs are grown directly from their farm in which we had an opportunity to visit as well.
Oe of two cooking classes held at PHRII. This was the vegetarian class where we learned how to make Spinach Paneer and biryani rice.
This was our first workshop led by Dr.Shanti with the topic on the caste system in India. This was a nice introduction to India as many of us were unfamiliar with the caste system and how it works as well as its importance to Indian society.
At the cervical camp we had an opportunity to see how PHRII operates in spreading awareness on cervical cancer as well as giving some of use the opportunity to help collect information on the patients. We also played games with the kids, like catch, volleyball, tag, duck duck goose, and many more games to entertain the kids.
Here we had an opportunity to hear the difference in our households. The Indian household relies heavily on the women's maintenance (cleaning, cooking, taking care of the kids) in American culture most households share the responsibilities.
Last day at PHRII. Although it seemed as we were all happy it was a bittersweet moment for all of us leaving the place we called home for a month. A place where we learned relaxed and enjoyed to the fullest.
