In commemoration of World Mental Health Day, the Higher Education Management Master Program (MMPT) at the Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada (SPs UGM) held a special webinar discussing the critical importance of mental health, particularly among the academic community in higher education. The event, a collaboration with the Faculty of Medicine at Sam Ratulangi University (UNSRAT) and INDOSTAFF, was conducted virtually via Zoom on October 10th 2024.
The webinar aimed to create a deep discussion space on mental health issues in higher education institutions. The increasing cases of mental health disorders have been affecting students and educators, the event was expected to offer practical solutions and encourage the creation of a healthier and more inclusive academic environment.
The event featured experienced speakers in the field of mental health, including; Prof. Dra. Yayi Suryo Prabandari, M.Si., Ph.D. – Chief of the Department of Behavioral Health, Environmental Health, and Social Medicine at FKKMK UGM; Prof. Dr. dr. B.H. Ralph Kairupan, Sp.KJ.(K) – Acting Chief of the Psychiatry Department at the UNSRAT Faculty of Medicine; Prof. Dr. Trina Ekawati Tallei – Chief of the Biology Department at the UNSRAT Faculty of Medicine, and Dr. Muhammad Awaludin, Sp.PD M.PD – Internal Medicine Specialist in the Psychosomatic and Palliative Division at FK UNSRAT.
Dr. Widyanto Dwi Nugroho, S.Hut., M.Agr., Vice Dean for Academic, Student Affairs, and Collaboration at SPs UGM, in his opening remarks, emphasized the importance of maintaining mental health among the academic community. “Mental health plays a vital role in balancing academic and professional life. We need to create a supportive environment for both students and educators to thrive optimally,” he stated.
More than one hour-long discussion explored various aspects of mental health from both psychological and medical perspectives. The speakers shared their experiences in dealing with mental health cases in higher education and offered practical steps to create a more supportive learning environment.
Dr.rer.nat. Ir. Wahyu Supartono, Chief of the MMPT SPs UGM Program, who also acted as the moderator, concluded the event by summarizing the key points of the discussion. “This webinar marks an important initial step in raising awareness about mental health in higher education. We hope all campus elements can collaborate to nurture the next generation, healthy both mentally and physically,” he said.
The event garnered significant attention from participants, including lecturers, educators, and students, and it is hoped to bring about positive changes in building a mental health culture in the higher education environment.
Writer: Arfikah Istari