Yesterday, we had a day-long interaction with nearly 100 students of Psychology and Social Work from almost 15 colleges in Mumbai and Thane District, in collaboration with KC College, Mumbai.
As aspiring mental health professionals, they spent the day delving deep into how the education sector as well as the MH field, like the rest of society, suffers from the same caste, gender, colonial, majoritarian prejudices. It was really encouraging to see so many students not only turn up but be very open and receptive to changing their viewpoint.
“Why are we not taught about ground realities more, we wish to understand and contribute. Please tell us what we can do to be inclusive and sensitive.” one student in attendance emphatically stated.
The highlight of the Conference was the cultural expression by folk artists from Nathpanthi Davri Gosavi community. They are experts in the secret sign language of Shivaji Maharaj’s times. There was a standing ovation in response to their presentation and the audience connected strongly to the idea of mental relief and release through art, music and dance.
Additionally, Meet Tara Dnyaneshwar, Assistant professor with PN Doshi Women’s College SNDT, and Meghana Jadhav, an established counselor, experienced in working with trauma survivors and minority communities spoke. Meet and Meghana started off the day with critical insights into the subject of the day: ‘Mental Health and Ground Realities’.
Then, the youth led Badlache Parv Kala Manch added very important social and political insights with their movement songs. They also led focus group discussions using games from our Mann Mela module.
Last but not least, our Mann Boli book about the Empowering side of Mental Health was launched by the Dean of Humanities, HSNC University, Mumbai and the other panelists.
Our heartfelt thanks go to the Psychology Department of Kishinchand Chellaram (KC) College, Mumbai for collaborating and being so open about critical discussions and debate.
