Dhaka:Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. A B M Obaidul Islam has called for accessible, humane, and effective mental health services for children, women, and the elderly, highlighting the importance of a coordinated effort involving families, educational institutions, communities, professionals, and state institutions.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Vice-Chancellor made these remarks as the chief guest at a national seminar titled 'Victimization to Resilience Mental Health Services for Children, Women, and the Elderly', organized by the Professional Masters Program of the Institute of Social Welfare and Research (ISWR) at Dhaka University.
The seminar, presided over by ISWR Director Professor Dr. Mahbuba Sultana, included addresses from several professors, while Professor Dr. Sheikh Tauhidul Islam moderated the event. During the seminar, Professor Dr. A B M Obaidul Islam noted that children, women, and the elderly often experience violence, neglect, and discrimination, which can have lasting impacts on their mental health.
The Vice-Chancellor emphasized the significance of resilience-building and the role of mental health services in enhancing social welfare, dignity, and quality of life. He urged individuals to contribute to advancing mental health services and highlighted the responsibility of social welfare professionals to support marginalized communities.
Dr. Obaidul Islam expressed hope that the seminar would bridge education, research, policy, and practice, enhancing students' social responsibility and professional values. He underscored the role of higher education in developing analytical skills and research-oriented thinking to address real-world issues.
He also acknowledged Dhaka University's contribution to knowledge practice and social welfare, stressing the need for well-equipped professionals to address complex societal challenges like poverty, inequality, and mental health.