Mental Health Services for University Students to Begin from November: UGC Member

Staff Reporter | PNN

From November, a mental health protection service program for university students across the country will be launched, according to Professor Dr. Mohammad Anwar Hossain, a member of the University Grants Commission (UGC) of Bangladesh. He stated that initially, the program will be provided in phases to 10,000 students from 22 universities.

Professor Anwar Hossain shared this information while delivering the keynote speech at the inauguration of a two-day workshop titled “Training Material and Manual Development Framework”, organized jointly by UGC and UNESCO at the Commission Auditorium on Friday (October 17).

He said, “A special module is being developed for the mental health protection of students in public and private universities, which will comprehensively include the services needed for the students.” He further emphasized the importance of integrating mental health development into the institutional framework of universities.

He also advised prioritizing candidates with mental health training when recruiting new teachers. Additionally, he suggested measures to enhance tolerance in higher education, improve teacher-student relationships, and appoint professional psychologists.

Professor Mashuma Habib, a UGC member, noted that with UNESCO’s support, UGC has taken timely steps to improve students’ mental health. This initiative is expected to strengthen students’ mental resilience, enhance teacher-student relationships, and promote positive behavioral changes.

Ms. Jesmin Parvin, Director of UGC’s International Cooperation Department, added, “Training will be provided not only for students but also for university officials and staff to ensure their mental and social well-being.”

UNESCO representative Raju Das stated, “This module is designed based on emotional intelligence, social skills, and life competencies, which will encourage students’ active participation and socially responsible behavior.”

The workshop was attended by Associate Professor Syed Tanvir Rahman from the Department of Psychology, University of Dhaka, Assistant Professor Md. Rafiuuzzaman from the Humanities Department, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, as well as student advisors, counselors, mental health specialists, students from 22 universities, and UGC officials.

It is noteworthy that UGC and UNESCO, in line with the awareness raised during July-August 2024, have developed a training manual under a social and mental health protection project to assess the social and mental needs of university students.