When we think about education, the first few thoughts are grades, exams, books etc. But, in reality, education is more vast than this. It is not just about academics but also about student well-being. Well-being beyond academics is about the mental,physical and emotional well-being of students. A good quality education is not only about academic knowledge but also about learning life skills and the ability to adapt to the fast-changing world.
In this blog you will explore why student well-being matters, the importance of emotional well-being students, the role of UGC India in shaping education, and student support services.
Why does Student Well Being matter?
A student's life is full of opportunities but everything comes with a challenge. With increasing academic pressure, competition, and constant urge to be successful leaves very little room for the students to care about themselves. If left unaddressed, the pressure can significantly affect a student's well being and can cause stress, anxiety, and burn out.
On the other hand, If they receive emotional and social support it can improve their mental health significantly. This can improve their overall performance resulting in better grades, and motivation to handle the tough challenges of their life. A student who feels they are emotionally supported will be more motivated and eager to learn. Thus, it is very important to ensure student’s well being beyond academics.
Initiatives by Universities India
The importance of student well-being has started to gain recognition and many universities in India are taking various initiatives for ensuring student mental health in India. They are implementing various university mental health programs. These initiatives are helping students if they are facing any issues like anxiety or depression and are also focusing on how to avoid such issues.
Following are some of the university wellness initiatives:
1. Counseling Centres for mental health challenges: Many campuses now have counselling cells where there are trained professionals who are available to talk to students when they need them. There are one-on-one counselling sessions, group therapy and mental health awareness workshops.
2. Peer Mentorship where senior students guide juniors: Peer mentorship is where the seniors based on their experiences guide juniors not only in academics but also in how to adjust to the campus life.
3. Recreational Activities: Universities organize various activities like cultural events, sports tournaments, art exhibitions and many moe to encourage balance between academics and self-care.
4. Health check camps for wellness awareness sessions: Various health check-up camps are arranged to see if there are any physical health concerns as early as possible so that measures can be taken. Wellness awareness campaigns are also arranged to spread awareness regarding student well-being
Role of UGC India
UGC India plays a vital role in setting policies that prioritize student well being. There are various UGC students guidelines that make sure students are provided with safe and nurturing spaces
Some key initiatives taken by UGC India include the following:
1. Issuing mental health advisories to encourage universities to take proactive steps
2. Implementing grievance redressal systems so that students can report issues they face without any fear.
3. Mandating anti-ragging cells to protect the students from bullying and harassment.
By taking such initiatives and measures UGC India ensures that student well-being is given more importance and not looked upon as a voluntary add-on.
Elements of Student Well-Being
1. Mental Health Support: Ensures that students have access to counselors, stress management workshops and awareness drives and learn how to manage pressure in a healthy way to improve their performance.
2. Physical Wellness: For promoting healthy eating, regular exercise, and preventive healthcare to ensure that students remain physically and mentally alert and fit.
3. Social Connection: Encourages clubs, communities and team activities to foster a sense of belonging and reduce the feeling of isolation for the students.
4. Students Life Skill Development: developing skills like time management, financial literacy, communication skills, etc. These skills can help them be ready for the world beyond the classroom.
How Students Can Prioritize Their Well Being?
Students should prioritize their mental wellness so that their overall performance increases. Not just in their academics but beyond academics as well.
1. Maintain a Balanced Routine: Organize your day so that you can have time for studies, hobbies, exercise and relaxation. This can help reduce burnout.
2. Take Regular Breaks: Studying for hours without proper breaks can be very tiring. Having a short break can freshen up your mind and make you ready for further studies or tasks. For Example, you can take a break after every 2 hours to freshen up your mind
3. Seek help without hesitation: If students are facing stress, anxiety they should reach out without hesitating and thinking what others might think about them. Seeking guidance or help is not a sign of weakness but a sign of strength.
4. Engage in Extracurricular Activities: Engaging yourself in your hobbies or extracurricular activities like music, art, writing, sports or any other activity can help your mind feel fresh.
5. Build a strong support network: Having friends, mentors or supportive family members that can provide you emotional support can be really helpful during tough timesThey should also build a strong support network.
FAQ’s
1. How does UGC India help in students' well being?
Ans: UGC India creates policies that ensure students are provided with safe and nurturing spaces
2. How can universities improve student well being beyond academics?
Ans: By offering mentorship programs, extracurricular activities and ensuring easy access to wellness programs
3. Does Student well-being affect their performance?
Ans: Yes definitely. A good mental health can improve the overall performance of a student.