Resuming studies after 20 years, I learnt how immensely education system has changes, says Dr Nupur Taneja

When I decided to pursue Post Graduate Diploma in Public Health Management (PGDPHM), I went through the feedback of various institutes and zeroed on to the PHFI Delhi - Indian Institute of Public Health. I think turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life.

The entire duration of the course is systemically divided under various subject-heads with end module exams conducted when the topic was over. I was quite apprehensive about this particular aspect but to my delight, I was able to handle it.

As I had resumed my studies after a gap of almost 20 years it was challenging for me to not only attend classes every day but also to sit at one place for six to seven hours.  But I must say that the faculty is outstanding. Not only are they brilliant with their subjects their approach towards students is also very friendly and helpful.

During my time at the institute, I had really good moments. I got to meet people from different backgrounds who were in different stages of their lives, spending time with them has changed my outlook towards various things.

The introductory lecture by the Director of IIPH-Delhi was very informative and motivating. In very simple yet in an effective manner he made us aware of the importance of Public Health. After listening to his lecture my decision of joining this course at this stage of my career was further reinforced.

I have been very lucky in having very friendly classmates. As I was the senior-most person in the class, they were respectful towards me at the same time friendly and helpful. I never felt out of place. Each and every person has helped me in some or the other way. Especially I am very thankful to Sukanya with whom I used to sit in class. Her immense patience with me made my life easy in IIPH. The most awaited time was the tea-break between lectures. I can say on behalf of other students that this was a time when we got to unwind and had a hearty talk with our fellow mates.

The most challenging task for me was to make presentations. Giving presentations made me recognise that the experience has forayed a new way of thinking about classroom theory. Working in a group was also a learning experience. Good communication is one of the most important professional skills. I think that giving presentations and group activities have improved my communication skills.

The best part of the institute is the feeling of belongingness atmosphere in the institute is very congenial. The faculty, as well as the official staff, is very approachable and polite. Every occasion/festival is celebrated with a lot of involvement of the faculty as well as the students.

One of the highlights of the institute is the “Umang Festival”. Faculty takes lots of pain and hard work to make it a success. It acts as an icebreaker between students and teachers. To my surprise, I also took part in the group dance conducted by our class and was able to match the energy of the youngsters. More than the final show it was the time spent in rehearsals which I will be cherished for a long time.

Time to time the institute conducts guest lectures by renowned personalities. Their intellect, experience and interaction with them helped me to enhance my knowledge and motivated me to develop critical thinking.

The system of assigning mentor from the faculty to every student is also very thoughtful. The students can approach them as and when they feel the need to so that they do not feel lost especially those who are staying in PG’s and are away from home. The placement cell is also efficiently handled by the placement officer. She regularly keeps updating the students of various placement opportunities.

I would like to mention that I had a wholesome experience in IIPH-Delhi, something to cherish all through my life.      

About the author

Dr Nupur Taneja is a student at PHFI Delhi - Indian Institute of Public Health.

Note: The views expressed in this article are solely author’s own and do not reflect/represent those of Shiksha