First-year students from the Bachelor of Psychology programme at the Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) participated in a field exposure visit to the Drug Rehabilitation Center at K. Himmafushi, providing students with an opportunity to gain firsthand insight into addiction treatment and rehabilitation services.

The visit complemented students’ classroom learning by allowing them to observe and learn about the practical realities of working with individuals affected by substance use and addiction. The experience provided a valuable opportunity for students to connect theoretical concepts with real-world mental health and rehabilitation practice.

Through the field exposure, students developed a greater understanding of addiction-related issues and the importance of rehabilitation in supporting individuals on their recovery journeys. The visit also helped students explore the roles and responsibilities of mental health professionals working within rehabilitation settings.

Exposure to professional practice at an early stage of their education can help psychology students develop a broader understanding of the field and the diverse settings in which psychological knowledge is applied. It also encourages students to consider the importance of multidisciplinary approaches when responding to complex mental health and substance-use concerns.

The field visit reflects FHS’s commitment to providing students with experiential learning opportunities that complement academic education and prepare them for future professional practice.

The initiative contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by increasing awareness of addiction treatment and rehabilitation, SDG 4 (Quality Education) through experiential learning, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through engagement between the university and a specialised rehabilitation service.