Media Release
Mangaluru, Jul 22: A two-day workshop on Psychological First Aid for the teachers of Catholic Board of Education, was organised by Shanthi Kiran Counselling Centre, Bajjodi, on July 19 and 20.
Msgr Maxim L Noronha, vicar general of the diocese, inaugurated in an unique way by pouring water to the sapling signifying the psychology of Carl Rogers. As water, manure, fertilizers are needed for the plant so unconditional acceptance, positive regard and emphathetic understanding are the essential elements in the wellbeing of the individual according to Psychologist Carl Rogers.
Addressing the teachers Msgr Maxim L Noronha asked the teachers to reap the fruits of the workshop and equip with skills to identify the conflicts and struggles of teachers and guide them in their wellbeing. Fr Arun Lobo, the director, explained the importance of the workshop. Just like Medical first aid for the external cuts, hurts and wounds, Psychological first aid for the inner wounds of disturbing thoughts, overwhelmed emotions and maladaptive behaviours. He also explained the need of guidance and support to ' z' generation, those born after the year. The children of z generation are the products of digital evolution. They are studying at present what is working ethics, family relations and conflict solving yet to be known.
Fr Antony Sherra, secretary of CBE, Fr Richard D’Souza and Fr Gratian Alvares were present for the workshop.
During the closing programme, Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of Mangaluru, was present. In his address, he enumerated the importance of counselling in the present society. Individuals are struggling with various conflicts and Counselling serves as an essential tool to them to face or empower with skills to face the situations,” he said.
Workshop will be held in two batches for all higher primary and high school teachers under the management of Mangaluru diocese. Each batch will have two levels on two days. They will be guided on psychology, developmental phases and classroom management of behaviours in first level and counselling skills in the second level. It will be held from July to November.