Punjabi University, Patiala Launches Student-Led Mental Health Ambassadors Programme
Kanwar Inder Singh/ royalpatiala.in News/ February 28,2026
Recently Punjabi University, Patiala launched its first-ever student-led Mental Health Ambassadors Programme during a One Day Training Workshop-cum-Seminar at the Science Auditorium, organized by the Dean Student Welfare Office in collaboration with the Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Career Hub (EICH). This is one of its own kind of initiative being undertaken by Punjabi University, Patiala and italigns with the guidelines of the Hon’ble Supreme Court and the University Grants Commission for promoting student mental health and well-being at its campus. Mental Health Task Force (MHTF) at Punjabi University being established to institutionalise the “right to mental health”. The task force will oversee the implementation of a campus-wide wellness ecosystem to strengthen students’ well-being on campus.
The theme for the programme was “Peer Support in Action: Psychologists’ Insights”. The workshop featured eminent experts including Prof. Promila Batra (Retd.), Department of Psychology, MDU, Rohtak, and Dr.Parwinder Singh, Associate Professor, Department of Humanities & Social Studies, IIT Ropar. The programme commenced with the University Dhuni followed by welcome address by Dr.Sukhwinder Singh Sran, Provost, Punjabi University Patiala.
Prof (Dr.)Mamta Sharma(Dean Student Welfare) described the initiative as a unique, student-driven effort based on the philosophy “By the students, for the students.” She emphasized the need to address rising mental health concerns and outlined plans to train student units in Psychological First Aid under professional guidance, along with workshops and awareness video sessions. The core message was “Seeking help is strength, not stigma.”
In his Presidential Address, the Vice Chancellor Prof.(Dr.) Jagdeep Singh described the programme as a path-breaking step and expressed confidence that it would yield positive and long-term outcomes for the university community. He emphasized that such unique initiatives would bridge the gap between students in need and mental health care. Prof.(Dr.) HimenderBharti (Director EICH) shared an overview of the Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Career Hub (EICH) and assured continuous institutional support to such unique initiatives that promote holistic development and well-being of students.
The first speaker for the session was Prof.Batra emphasised about the psychological factors behind self-harm and suicide prevention, with focus on the importance of emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and practical prevention strategies. She particularly stressed the role of “ self ”in breaking negative behavioural cycles and fostering resilience.
Dr.Parwinder Singh spoke on “From Reacting to Reflecting: The Process of Emotional Regulation; highlighting the biological basis of emotions and emphasizing practical application of psychological principles. He emphasized that awarenessalong with consistent practice is essential for emotional regulation and personal growth.
The post-lunch training session was conducted by Prof. (Dr.) Nalini Malhotra, Department of Psychology,Punjabi University Patiala. She shared insights on ethical framework of mental health counselling and Dr. Ruby Gupta, Counsellor, Student Counselling Centre, DSW Office provided orientation and training to students who joined the Mental Health Task Force.
The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Dr.Jagpreet Kaur, Additional Provost (Girls), expressing gratitude to the resource persons, EICH member, and the organizing committee and to Dean Student Welfare Office for this wonderful initiative. Around 350 students from different departments of the university participated in the event along with heads of their departments and faculty.
