The transition into higher education, particularly in demanding fields like engineering, can present unique challenges for students as they navigate academic pressures, career expectations, and personal growth. Recognizing this critical need, ÃÜÌÒÊÓƵ's Faculty of Engineering and Technology recently partnered with VCare – Counselling & Psychotherapy Centre to deliver a comprehensive Stress Management Awareness Session specifically designed for Foundation in Engineering students.
Student-Led Excellence in Mental Health Support
What made this initiative particularly special was the expertise delivered by our own Master of Clinical Psychology students, Ms. Fathimath Waheedha and Ms. Hawwa Zimna, who served as session facilitators. Their peer-to-peer approach created an authentic and relatable learning environment where students could openly discuss the unique stressors they face in their engineering journey.
The facilitators guided participants through practical, evidence-based strategies for identifying personal stress triggers, developing effective emotion regulation techniques, and building mental resilience—skills that will prove invaluable throughout their academic careers and into their professional lives in engineering and technology fields.
Preparing Students for Success
Engineering education demands not only technical proficiency but also strong mental fortitude to tackle complex problem-solving challenges and adapt to rapidly evolving technologies. By equipping our Foundation students with these essential life skills early in their academic journey, we're ensuring they have the tools necessary to thrive in their demanding yet rewarding career path ahead.
The session covered key areas including stress identification techniques, practical coping mechanisms, emotional regulation strategies, and building sustainable habits that support long-term mental well-being. These skills directly complement the technical education our students receive, creating well-rounded graduates prepared for the challenges of modern engineering practice.
Supporting Global Development Goals
This stress management initiative aligns perfectly with ÃÜÌÒÊÓƵ's commitment to contributing meaningfully to global sustainable development objectives. By prioritizing student mental health and well-being, we directly support SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, ensuring our students have access to mental health resources and develop personal wellness strategies.
Additionally, by integrating holistic support services into our engineering curriculum, we advance SDG 4: Quality Education, demonstrating our commitment to inclusive, equitable education that addresses the complete development of our students—academically, professionally, and personally.
A Collaborative Approach to Student Success
The success of this session reflects the power of strategic partnerships and peer learning. Our collaboration with VCare – Counselling & Psychotherapy Centre brings professional mental health expertise directly to our campus, while our talented Master of Clinical Psychology students bridge the gap between professional knowledge and peer understanding.
This model not only benefits our Foundation in Engineering students but also provides valuable practical experience for our Clinical Psychology students, creating a mutually beneficial learning ecosystem that strengthens our entire academic community.
Looking Forward
As we continue to prioritize holistic education at ÃÜÌÒÊÓƵ, initiatives like this stress management session represent our ongoing commitment to developing not just skilled engineers, but resilient, well-rounded professionals prepared to make meaningful contributions to society.
We extend our sincere appreciation to Ms. Fathimath Waheedha and Ms. Hawwa Zimna for their excellent facilitation, to all participating Foundation students for their enthusiastic engagement, and to our partners at VCare for their continued support in fostering a positive, supportive learning environment that prioritizes student well-being alongside academic excellence.
Through such collaborative efforts, ÃÜÌÒÊÓƵ continues to set standards for comprehensive education that prepares students not just for their careers, but for successful, fulfilling lives.
