Bengaluru: Manipal Academy of Higher Education Bengaluru (MAHE) has launched 'Manam', a groundbreaking initiative aimed at prioritizing the mental and emotional well-being of its students. This program reflects MAHE's commitment to creating a holistic learning environment and enhancing workplace readiness by developing emotional intelligence, a crucial skill in today’s job market.
'Manam' offers various innovative features, including access to professional counselors, peer support groups, and a user-friendly website with self-help tools. It also includes expert-led sessions covering topics such as mindfulness, sexual wellness, and movement therapy.
The curriculum addresses essential themes like the body-mind-spirit connection, conscious and subconscious understanding, nervous system regulation, and personalized wellness plans. These subjects are presented through interactive sessions that combine cognitive and energy practices, equipping students with practical tools for emotional resilience.
The program aims to enhance students' self-awareness and emotional intelligence (EI), which are increasingly valued by employers during recruitment. By investing in these skills, MAHE positions itself as an innovative institution preparing graduates to thrive in the modern workplace.
Prof. (Dr.) Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor of MAHE, emphasized the initiative's pioneering nature and alignment with global best practices. He stated, 'At MAHE, we wanted to create a safe space for students to express themselves and find necessary support. After conducting surveys and engaging in discussions with students, we developed 'Manam' to provide practical solutions in an engaging manner.'
Dr. Raghavendra Prabhu, Deputy Registrar at MAHE, highlighted the program's goal of normalizing discussions around mental health, aiming to eliminate the stigma associated with seeking help. 'Manam' is designed to empower students, fostering a culture of support and growth while ensuring they have the tools to navigate life's challenges confidently.
Maheima Kapur, Core Facilitator of 'Manam', noted the program's relevance to Gen Z, stating, 'We designed 'Manam' to make mental well-being accessible and engaging, ensuring that students feel comfortable seeking help when needed.'
With over 7,000 students currently enrolled, MAHE recognizes that counseling services alone are insufficient. 'Manam' lays the groundwork for self-learning and emotional navigation, making a significant impact on the student community.