Held on 3 and 4 August 2026, the programme transformed Lecture Hall 2 into a vibrant space for learning, empathy and critical reflection. The initiative was guided by a clear objective: to empower educators with practical and applicable competencies to better support the mental well-being of their students.
Empowering Academic and Clinical Educators
The workshop attracted enthusiastic participation from lecturers across IIUM, together with dedicated Clinical Instructors from the Clinical Skills Centre (CSC) at the Kulliyyah of Nursing. Bringing together both classroom academics and clinical educators created a valuable platform for the exchange of experiences, perspectives and practical approaches to supporting students.
Participants explored how educators could respond more effectively to student stress and emotional challenges across a range of demanding learning environments, from the lecture theatre and skills laboratory to clinical practice settings.
A Meaningful International and Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration
The workshop also reflected the strength of cross-disciplinary and international collaboration. The Department of Professional Nursing Studies partnered with the Kulliyyah of Education, IIUM, alongside Åbo Akademi University, Finland, bringing together expertise from nursing education and professional counselling.
This collaboration enriched the programme by providing participants with diverse perspectives on student support, communication, mental well-being and culturally responsive educational practice.
- Asst. Prof. Dr Hasanah Pairoh — Nursing Educator, Kulliyyah of Nursing, IIUM
- Asst. Prof. Dr Nursyahidah Khalid — Counselling Educator, Kulliyyah of Education, IIUM
- Asst. Prof. Dr Mohd Hatta Othman — Counselling Educator, Kulliyyah of Education, IIUM
- Dr Abdul Rauf Hussein — Counselling Educator, Åbo Akademi University, Finland
From Theory to Practice: An Engaging Learning Experience
Rather than relying solely on conventional one-way lectures, the organisers deliberately created an interactive learning environment. Participants were encouraged not only to listen, but also to reflect, discuss, practise and apply the skills introduced throughout the workshop.
The programme combined conceptual understanding with practical exercises, enabling participants to explore how counselling principles could be incorporated naturally and appropriately into their everyday interactions with students.
The workshop provided educators with a valuable opportunity to strengthen not only their professional competencies, but also their ability to listen, connect and respond compassionately to students who may require support.
A Resounding Success
Participant response to the workshop was highly positive. Delegates described the programme as a meaningful opportunity to reflect on their roles as educators, exchange experiences with colleagues and strengthen the practical skills required to support students’ mental well-being.
The programme also demonstrated the importance of equipping educators with appropriate foundational counselling skills while recognising the boundaries of their professional roles and the importance of appropriate referral when further support is required.
Expressing her appreciation for the strong participation and encouraging feedback received throughout the programme, the Head of the Department of Professional Nursing Studies, Dr Nur Ain Mahat, said:
Alhamdulillah. We are grateful for the great participation and positive feedback from all delegates. It was a meaningful opportunity to learn, share and practise skills to better support our students’ mental well-being. We sincerely hope that the knowledge and skills gained will be put into practice in our everyday lives and interactions with others.
The workshop concluded with sincere appreciation extended to the facilitators, collaborating institutions and all participants whose commitment and active involvement contributed to the success of the programme.
Through initiatives such as this, the Kulliyyah of Nursing, IIUM continues to strengthen a supportive, compassionate and resilient academic environment in which educators are equipped not only to facilitate learning, but also to recognise and respond appropriately to the well-being needs of their students.