Students of B.Sc. (Nursing) V Semester from Meenakshi College of Nursing undertook a field visit to the Schizophrenia Research Foundation, Chennai, on 11 March 2026 as part of their academic curriculum. The visit was organized to provide students with practical exposure to specialized mental health services and to enhance their understanding of psychiatric care and rehabilitation.
A total of 44 students participated in the visit, accompanied by faculty members Dr. Thephilah Cathrine R., Associate Professor, and Ms. Muthuselvi M., Nursing Tutor. The programme began with an informative session conducted by Mr. Koteeswari Rao, Joint Director of SCARF, who delivered an insightful lecture outlining the institution’s initiatives, treatment approaches, and community outreach programmes aimed at supporting individuals with mental health conditions.
Following the lecture, students were taken on a guided tour of the facility. They visited the Outpatient Department (OPD), where they observed the procedures involved in psychiatric assessment and patient consultation. The visit also included the Occupational Therapy Unit, where patients participate in therapeutic activities designed to improve functional abilities, develop social skills, and promote independence in daily living.
The field visit offered valuable experiential learning for the students, enabling them to gain deeper insights into mental health care, rehabilitation practices, and the importance of multidisciplinary support systems for individuals living with psychiatric disorders. Such initiatives play a significant role in strengthening the practical competencies and compassionate approach of future healthcare professionals.
