The Rural Development Institute, Himalayan Institute Hospital Trust (RDI-HIHT) has long been committed to empowering adolescents by providing them with a platform to voice their concerns, share their dreams, and address the unique challenges they face. Summer, often seen by adolescents as a time for renewal and self-discovery, sets the perfect stage for RDI’s annual “Knowing Oneself” workshop — a thoughtfully curated program built on decades of experience working with youth.
Launched on 29th May and continuing through June, the Knowing Oneself workshops are welcoming adolescents from the districts of Dehradun, Haridwar, Tehri, and Pauri in separate groups. Participants engage in an enriching journey of self-exploration, interacting with academic heads and expert facilitators who guide them in resolving doubts, discovering new interests, and building life skills. Notably, the workshops are inclusive, with active participation from children with disabilities, enriching the experience for all involved.
These unique workshops go far beyond the classroom. Participants delve into topics such as self-identity, mindful living, responsible use of social media, and CPR training. They explore broader themes like peace and development, Swasthya (health), Sadachar (good conduct), and the powerful ideas of unlearning and relearning — all through engaging group reflections, interactive games, storytelling, and creative activities.
The workshops are being inaugurated in a symbolic and meaningful manner — with the participants themselves lighting lamps at their respective tables, signifying the beginning of a journey of inner discovery. Heads and faculty members from various schools and departments — including Science & Technology, Management Studies, Biosciences, Clinical Psychology, as well as key administrative units like Admissions, Placement, and NSS — have been gracing the inaugural sessions with their presence. They warmly engage with the young audience, offering insights from their respective fields. Sharing nostalgic anecdotes from a pre-digital era, one of the speakers reflected, “Back then, we had to work hard to find answers. Today, information is at your fingertips — use it wisely.” Encouraging the participants to embrace the opportunity fully, he added, “You are the future. This workshop is a gift — take from it what will help you grow.”
Over the course of the workshop, more than 150 adolescents have actively participated in a diverse range of engaging activities — from a rope-blind game designed to build trust and communication, to candle making, a time management ball game, photo frame crafting, CPR training, and reflective exercises using guided questionnaires. Thought-provoking discussions on adolescent issues and the responsible use of social media further enriched their experience.
The sessions are being expertly anchored by the dedicated RDI team, whose thoughtful facilitation and seamless coordination have made the workshop truly transformative and memorable.