Srinagar : The Department of Social Work at the University of Kashmir has initiated a two-day training workshop aimed at equipping school educators with the skills necessary for the early prevention and intervention of mental health issues in school settings.
The program is designed to enhance teachers’ abilities to identify and respond to mental health challenges among students through structured interventions and school-based strategies. The workshop features interactive sessions, skill-based modules, and discussions focused on early intervention strategies, attracting school teachers from various districts. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan emphasized the university’s commitment to addressing youth mental health as a vital component of holistic education, noting that teachers often serve as the first line of support for struggling students. Dr. Arshid Hussain, a noted psychiatrist, underscored the importance of early intervention and community-based mental health models in schools, asserting that teachers can significantly influence children’s mental well-being when provided with the right tools and empathetic approaches. Dr. Aadil Bashir, the Principal Investigator of the workshop, highlighted its goal of bridging the gap between research and practice by translating research findings into practical tools for educators. This workshop is part of a research project sponsored by the Indian Council of Medical Research, focusing on primary prevention interventions for youth in Kashmir. The project has resulted in the development of a practical manual titled “Wal Sukoon Chandav” (Come, Let’s Find Peace), which aims to support students’ emotional well-being, promote resilience, and create safe, responsive school environments.
