PU, US university sign MoU

LAHORE:Punjab University and Michigan State University (MSU), the US, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to promote education and training with regard to the psychiatric and psychological issues of students.

The MoU signing ceremony was held at Vice Chancellor’s Office in which PU VC Prof Niaz Ahmad, MSU’s Assistant Prof Dr Farha Abbasi, Faculty of Life Sciences Dean Prof Dr Firdaus-e-Bareen, External Linkages Director Dr Sobia Khuram and Institute of Applied Psychology (IAP) Associate Professor Dr Rafia Rafique were also present.

According to the MoU, Michigan State University’s Department of Psychiatry would assist the PU Institute of Applied Psychology in providing professional training in psychological skills, psychiatric diagnostic concepts and psychotherapy techniques for students in the institute to provide exposure and improve skills. It would also provide training based on a biopsychosocial approach informed by local cultural norms. The topics may include understanding mental health concepts and symptoms, psychiatric disorders, including models of trauma, mood disorders, suicidal ideation, substance use and dependency, family conflict, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents.

The other topics would include conducting assessments and treatment planning, discussing psychosocial support and utilising interdisciplinary mental health teams.

PU VC Prof Niaz Ahmad said, “A healthy mind is necessary for a healthy body and we must take care of our mental health.”