Media Release
Mangaluru, Oct 17: The CBSE capacity building programme on “Promoting mental health and wellness among students”, organized by Carmel English Medium Higher Primary School CBSE Kotekar, under the guidance of the Centre of Excellence, Bengaluru, was held on October 16 at Carmel English Medium Higher Primary School CBSE Kotekar.
The programme was graced by joint secretary Sr Juliana Mary AC, Sr Pramila AC, the Principal and Venue Director, Sr Anitha AC, Vice Principal and the esteemed resource persons, Dr Swetha Kamath from Shree Gujarati English Medium High School, and D Vidhya Lakshmi from Ambika Vidyalaya Bappalige, Puttur. Teachers from various schools participated enthusiastically in this capacity building initiative aimed at enhancing professional competence and promoting overall wellness in the teaching community.
The formal programme commenced with a prayer service led by the students, invoking divine blessings for the success of the day, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the resource persons and the representatives of participants, symbolizing the light of knowledge and wisdom.
A vibrant welcome dance presented by the students added colour and energy to the morning. Rita then delivered the formal welcome address, warmly greeting all dignitaries and participants, and introducing the objectives of the day’s programme.
The first session of the capacity building programme focused on promoting mental health and well-being among students. The resource person highlighted the importance of creating awareness about mental health to support pedagogical improvement and enhance the overall learning experience. Teachers were encouraged to recognize behavioural and emotional changes in children at an early stage and respond with patience and understanding.
The second session began with an engaging interactive game that energized the participants and created an atmosphere of teamwork and enthusiasm. The resource person then introduced stories representing different mental health contexts, including social anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and fear. Each team was given a specific story and asked to analyse and present it verbally, highlighting the emotional challengesfaced by individuals in such situations.
The third session focused on the importance of a strong support system in promoting students’ mental and physical well- being. The resource person highlighted that positive support systems provide numerous benefits, such as reducing stress, enhancing resilience, improving emotional regulation, and fostering overall mental health. Strategies to build and maintain a support systemwere also discussed, emphasizing communication, empathy, trust, and collaboration among peers,teachers, and families.
The session further explored mindfulness practices, such as breathing exercises, grounding techniques, and reflective journaling, to help children manage stressand remain present. Participants were also informed about services and supports available for children within a system of care, highlighting the importance of coordinated efforts among school staff, counsellors, and mental health professionals.
The fourth session focused on the school- based mental health service learning programme, which integrates mental health awareness with practical, experiential learning. The resource person explained that such programmes help students develop empathy, leadership, and a sense of responsibility toward community well- being. Following the sessions, participants shared their reflections and feedback, making the event collaborative and insightful. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Vanisha, who expressed gratitude to the resource persons, Venue Director and all the teachers for their active participation.
The day ended with closing remarks and a group photo session, marking the successful conclusion of the CBSE capacity building programme on “Promoting health and wellness.” The event inspired educators to create schools that nurture both the mind and heart, ensuring the holistic development of every child.