Mir Aatif
Baramulla, May 6, 2025(BANN). The Department of Psychology, Government Degree College, Baramulla, with full support from the college administration, launched a meaningful awareness campaign titled “RAAHAT Hunnar-e Sukoon – An Open Arm Succour.” The aim was to spread awareness about mental health, build emotional strength, and encourage healing through open conversations and creative activities.
The event began with an opening remarks by Dr. Kaiser Ahmad Dar, Head, Department of Psychology of the college. In his address, Dr. Kaiser stressed the growing importance of mental health in today’s fast-paced and stressful world. He highlighted how mental well-being is just as important as physical health and should never be ignored.
He encouraged students to be more open about their feelings, to seek help when needed, and to support one another without judgment.
Prof. Tariq Ahmad Chalkoo, Secretary, Staff Council and Head, Department of Physics, also shared his thoughts.
He appreciated the teamwork and coordination among various departments, which, he said, plays an important role in building a positive, caring, and mentally healthy environment within the college.
Prof. Mohammad Shafi Lone, Principal of the college, delivered the presidential address. He praised the efforts of the Psychology Department and the students for organizing such a thoughtful and meaningful event. He encouraged both students and staff to keep spreading awareness about mental health and to promote a culture of empathy, support, and emotional well-being on campus and beyond.
A panel discussion followed, with panellists including Prof. Mohammad Shafi Lone, Prof. Tariq Ahmad Chalkoo, Dr. Syed Mutahar Aqib Dr. Abdul Majeed Bhat, Dr. Aaliya Akhtar, and Dr. Shahnawaz Mushtaq. The panel responded thoughtfully to the questions raised by the audience. They spoke about the importance of understanding emotions, the growing need for mental health support, and how simply listening to someone with empathy can be a powerful step toward healing.
The event also featured an in-house rally, flagged off by the worthy Prof. Mohammad Shafi Lone, Prof. Tariq Ahmad Chalkoo, and Dr. Kaiser Ahmad Dar. Students and staff walked together carrying banners and placards with messages about mental health awareness and emotional strength.
A highlight of the day was a powerful Street Play performed by the students of Department of Psychology. The play showed the silent struggles many people face and how care, conversation, and community can help them heal.
The event was carefully planned by Dr. Shar Ul Nisa Haroon and reasoned out with a warm vote of thanks by Nazneen Bashir, a 6th semester student pursuing Psychology as a major, who thanked everyone for their support and participation.
The campaign, under the theme “Rahat: Hunnar-e Sukoon,” stood as a message of hope and support, showing the college’s strong commitment to student well-being and inclusive education.
