Professor (Dr.) Lindsay G. Oades, Deputy Dean and Professor of Wellbeing Science, Faculty of Education at the University of Melbourne, delivered the 2^nd Jindal-Melbourne Distinguished Lecture on September 13. His lecture was themed ‘A Capability Model of Well-being Literacy’.

Dr. Oades explained various aspects of well-being while focusing on its importance in different sectors. He delivered a detailed presentation on the aforementioned model and its application in different spheres.

Dr. Oades is an internationally acclaimed multi-award-winning well-being science researcher, educator and author. He was a coordinating lead author with a UNESCO assignment examining the relationship between education and human flourishing. In 2013 he was awarded an Australian Government citation for outstanding contribution to student learning.

JIBS organises masterclass on several topics

Students at Jindal Institute of Behavioural Sciences (JIBS) attended an interactive masterclass on ‘Secondary Data Analysis in Behavioural Research’ conducted by Dr. Liat Levita, Dr. Darya Gaysina, and Prof. Jenny Terry from the University of Sussex on August 31. The session provided an overview of secondary data analysis and featured engaging hands-on activities using the available datasets from their research. Students had the opportunity to discuss their queries with these scholars. The session also provided the practical skills required in leveraging existing data for behavioural research and showcased the power of data in psychology.

Mr. Gauresh Jayant, Welfare Officer, Dept. of Social Welfare, Government of NCT of Delhi, conducted a masterclass on ‘Psychology of Prisoners’ on September 2. The masterclass delved into the intricate psychological dynamics of individuals in correctional settings, offering valuable insights into their behaviour needs, and the underlying factors contributing to criminality. The discussions highlighted how correctional psychology can be leveraged to facilitate the reintegration of prisoners into society, reducing recidivism and promoting positive behavioural change. By exploring various therapeutic approaches and evidence-based practices, the masterclass aimed at equipping participants with the knowledge needed to support prisoners in their journey towards rehabilitation.

JIBS organised a masterclass on ‘Introduction to McMaster Model of Family Therapy’ on September 4. The session was conducted by Dr. Yannavar B Pravin, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatric Social Work, Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences, Delhi.  This masterclass focused on introducing the McMaster model of family therapy that has been adapted to the Indian setting. Participants learned different techniques and strategies that one needs to be skilled in and skills to employ while working in clinical settings. The session put forward different case studies focusing on the importance and implementation of this model.

JIBS organised a masterclass on ‘Feminist Psychoanalysis’ on September 19. The masterclass was conducted by Prof. Rachana Johari. Rachana Johri was a Professor at the School of Human Studies and Director, of the Centre for Psychotherapy and Clinical Research at Ambedkar University, Delhi. Currently she divides time between work as  a Psychoanalytic counsellor and as  a Visiting Professor in Psychology at BMU. The session delved into the topics of psychoanalysis and feminism and their intersection with the context of acquiring gendered subjectivity. Prof. Johari explained some of the major developments within feminist psychoanalysis and the significance of these developments from the perspective of therapy. She also touched on its relevance in the Indian context.

JIBS held a masterclass on ‘Transforming Communities Through the Power of Story Telling’ on September 25. The session was conducted by Dr. Tripti Sakhuja, a renowned psychologist, counsellor and eminent educationist. Students of M.A./M.Sc. Community Psychology explored the power of storytelling in community engagement. From understanding the role of the storyteller and listener to discovering the structure of a compelling story, session provided students with valuable insights. They also delved into the essence of ‘ubuntu’ — togetherness — and shared a meaningful group activity.

JIBS hosted a masterclass titled ‘Psychological Principles in Action: Real World Application of Cognitive and Learning Theories’ on September 26. The session was conducted by Ms. Mandavi Sharma, a dedicated psychologist, educator and counsellor with over 15 years of experience in learning and development, education, and school administration. The session provided insights into how cognitive and learning theories are applied daily, shaping behaviour and decision-making.

Visit to J.P. Jain Senior Secondary School, Sonipat

Masters’ students from JIBS visited J.P. Jain Senior Secondary School, Sonipat, on September 7. They were accompanied by Dr. Vasundharaa Santhosh Nair, Assistant Professor, and Dr. Sajitha U., Assistant Professor.

Students conducted a session on peer pressure and mental health for school students. They discussed the negative effects of peer pressure, unhealthy coping mechanisms, and how to manage emotions like sadness, anger, and anxiety. They also addressed sensitive issues like suicide and self-harm, which can result from poor mental health or negative coping strategies.

Session for school teachers

Faculty members of the JIBS conducted a session for teachers on ‘Developmental Disorders and Effective Interventions’ at Little Angels Inclusive School in Sonipat on September 7. Dr. Aasim Ur Rehman, Assistant Professor, Ms. Sukanya, Lecturer, and Ms. Indupriya, Lecturer, conducted the session.

The session aimed at equipping the teachers with practical knowledge, including how to use the NCERT checklist and implement behaviour management techniques in their classrooms. Through interactive activities and case studies, teachers gained valuable tools to enrich their classroom practices.

Vipin Vijay Nair awarded Prestigious Fellowship

Dr. Vipin Vijay Nair, Associate Professor, JIBS, has been awarded the prestigious International Fellowship of Restorative Justice Practitioners (IFRJP), an initiative by Restorative Justice for All International Institute, on September 10.

This global fellowship aims to connect and empower individuals and services in the field of restorative justice. Dr. Vipin V. Nair is one of only 11 practitioners selected worldwide, and one of just two from India, making this achievement remarkable.

World Suicide Prevention Day commemorated

On the occasion of World Suicide Prevention Day (September 10), the Centre for Community Mental Health at JIBS organised an awareness campaign to symbolise hope, unity, and collective support.

Students and volunteers were dressed in yellow, the colour of the suicide prevention awareness ribbon, which signifies a transition from darkness to light. A human formation of the ribbon was also created. While standing in the formation, volunteers turned on their phone’s flashlight, illuminating the space in a symbolic gesture of hope.

Session for school students

As a part of World Suicide Prevention Day, first-year students of MSc. Psychosocial Rehabilitation at JIBS hosted a session on ‘Coping for Tomorrow’ at Happy Senior Secondary School, Sonipat on September 10.

They engaged 70 students of classes 9 and 11 through interactive sessions and heartfelt conversations, emphasising the importance of empathy, self-care, and seeking help. The session included sharing stories, interactive activities like ‘would you rather’, ‘dumb charades’, and ‘coping mechanisms’ to help them navigate tough times.

Sexual health awareness campaign

A comprehensive sexual health awareness campaign was conducted on September 11 by JIBS to promote understanding and knowledge about sexual health among students. The campaign featured various interactive elements designed to engage students and provide them with accurate information. One of the key components of the campaign was a series of knowledge boards that addressed different aspects of sexual health.

The knowledge boards revolved around the ideas of the importance of sexual health and misconceptions about sex and sexual health. The interactive element allowed students to express their doubts and receive clarification as well. It also featured a consent pledge, encouraging students to commit to respecting boundaries and obtaining consent before engaging in sexual activity.

Training programme

JIBS conducted a training programme on September 12 on ‘Sexual Harassment Awareness and Response’ for officers of the Department of Women and Child Development, Haryana at Sonipat.

The programme focused on two critical aspects of sexual harassment at the workplace: Navigating Legal Boundaries and Support for Victims of Sexual Harassment. Sessions were conducted by Ms. Rutuja Shinde, Lead at The Outcast Collective (POSH law consultant), Dr. Archana Poonia, Associate Professor, JGBS, and Dr. Vasundharaa Santhosh Nair, Assistant Professor, JIBS.

The programme provided a detailed overview of sexual harassment laws and regulations in India. It shed light on the legal implications and consequences of such acts, empowering participants to understand their rights and responsibilities. It also highlighted different aspects of providing support to victims of sexual harassment at workplace.

Visit to District Hospital

MSc. Psychosocial Rehabilitation students at JIBS visited the District Hospital in Sonipat on September 16. The visit provided students with real-world exposure to the mental healthcare service delivery systems in public healthcare settings.

During their visit, they engaged in discussions with psychiatrists about various psychiatric disorders, the role of various mental health professionals, and the process of disability certification for various mental health conditions. Students also got the opportunity to interact with the District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) team and were able to attain a comprehensive understanding of DMHP and its functioning. The students also learned about the crucial outreach services provided in the communities, deepening their understanding of mental health care delivery systems in district hospital settings.

Visit to Bright Scholar Senior Secondary School

As part of National Nutrition Week, first-year M.Sc. Psychosocial Rehabilitation students at JIBS hosted a session titled “Healthy Food for a Healthy Mind” at Bright Scholar Senior Secondary School, Sonipat on September 19.

They engaged around 80 class 8 students, two teaching staff, and a school counsellor in exploring the link between a balanced diet and mental well-being. The campaign highlighted the significance of healthy eating habits for maintaining a positive mind.

Forensic Science Week (18-20 September) celebrated

The Centre for Victimology & Psychological Studies (CVPS) at JIBS organised a three-day workshop on Victim Perspective with a focus on victims of crime, abuse, and harm. This was done in commemoration of Forensic Science Week associated with Forensic Victimology.

The three-day event included a psychological first aid workshop to support victims of abuse; screening of movie ‘Sector 36’ followed by a panel discussion and a crime scene scavenger hunt. The Master’s students of JIBS conducted the workshop.

Expert Talk on innovations in Alzheimer’s Care

JIBS organised an Expert Talk titled ‘Innovations in Alzheimer’s Care: From Early Detection to Comprehensive Management and Cutting-Edge Research’ on September 24. Coordinated by Ms. Sonia Rani, Lecturer, the session featured Dr. Atri Chatterjee from Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, who discussed the latest advancements in Alzheimer’s research, including new therapies and ongoing clinical trials.