JMI Launches RCI-Approved Diploma in Child Counselling

• JMI launches RCI-accredited diploma in child counselling
• Unique program among central unis; trains pros with standards
• Orientation features experts on child mental health issues

Psychology​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Department of Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) has initiated a path-breaking a two-semester advanced diploma program in child guidance and counselling that is accredited by the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI). The program, as a first of its kind in India's central universities, is designed to produce professionally competent counselors with high standards while the demand for specialized child mental health is on the rise drastically.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Mazhar Asif, by his valuable suggestions, and Registrar Prof. Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi, by his effort in the direction of the accreditation and smooth conduction of the program, were the prominent supporters of the event that marked the program launch. Prof. Rizvi, at the inaugural ceremony, pointed out the importance of faith in mental health while appreciating the department's drive: "Trust in divine powers can alleviate anxiety and stress to a great extent."

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He not only recognized and appreciated Prof. Samina Bano and Prof. Sheema Aleem for their energetic works but also ensured that the administration would provide all the support needed. The Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Prof. Mohd. Muslim Khan, through his emotional and vivid portrayal of JMI's rich past, was able to gain the audience's attention and convey his sincere compliments on the course's bright future. Prof. Bano, on her part, welcomed the students and advised them to be the university's torchbearers by living the principles of the program.

Along with Prof. Aleem, she grateful to Vice-Chancellor and Registrar, expressing that the real work to accreditation was done by Course Coordinator Prof. Bharti Sharma, Dr. Faizullah Khan, and RCI Programme Officer Prateek Kumar. Among other events, the orientation was an opportunity to listen and learn from a range of eminent specialists such as Dr. Vandana Thapar (former Joint Director, NIPCCD), Prof. Rekha Sharma Sen (IGNOU), Prof.

Zubair Meenai (JMI), Dr. Jagriti Singh (AIIMS), Dr. Rahul Chandok (psychiatrist, Artemis Hospitals), and Prof. Bilal Ahmed (SPYM, Delhi). The topics covered during the sessions ranged from child development, protection measures, special needs support, children's mental health issues, to the prevention of drug abuse and, thus, the participants were equipped with the skills that have viable practical application in their future as ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌counselors.