SKUAST-K inaugurates Mental Health Counselling Cell to support student well-being

Mental resilience as crucial as academic excellence: VC
Srinagar, Feb 19: In a significant step towards fostering student well-being, the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) Kashmir has inaugurated a Mental Health Counselling Cell at its Shalimar campus.
The initiative, launched in collaboration with KASHMER (Kashmir American Society for Healthcare, Medical Education and Research) and the Help Poor Voluntary Trust (HPVT), aims to provide mental health support and guidance to students.
The Vice Chancellor of SKUAST Kashmir, Professor Nazir Ahmad Ganai, inaugurated the facility in the presence of Professor Mohammad Muzafar Khan (Consultant and Clinical Psychologist), Professor Nelofar Banday (Dean Students’ Welfare), Professor Azmat Alam Khan (OSD to Vice Chancellor), Dr Syed Riyaz Ahmad (Project Head, KASHMER), and Farooq Ahmad Bhat (Chairman, HPVT), alongside faculty members, scientists, medical officers, and students.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof Ganai highlighted the university’s commitment to the holistic development of students, emphasising that mental resilience is as crucial as academic excellence. He stressed the need to equip students with the ability to manage stress, noting that Kashmiri heritage, deeply rooted in Sufi traditions, has always emphasised inner strength and perseverance.
Professor Mohammad Muzafar Khan underscored the importance of a mentally healthy society and advocated for a bio-psychosocial model to promote societal well-being. He expressed optimism that the counselling cell would make a meaningful impact in supporting students’ mental health.
In her welcome address, Professor Nelofar Banday reaffirmed SKUAST Kashmir’s dedication to student welfare, stating that the university is committed to creating a supportive environment where students can thrive both academically and emotionally.
The initiative received widespread appreciation, with Dr Syed Riyaz Ahmad and Mr Farooq Ahmad Bhat lauding the university’s efforts and pledging continued collaboration to strengthen mental health support for students.
The event also featured the release of several informational booklets on mental health. Dr Seemi Lohani (Assistant Students’ Welfare Officer) expertly conducted the proceedings and delivered the vote of thanks. This initiative marks a significant step in addressing mental health challenges among students and reinforces SKUAST Kashmir’s commitment to fostering a healthier and more resilient academic community.