St Xavier’s College Ranchi marks World Suicide Prevention Day with awareness programme
LAVANYA ANAND Ranchi, September 10: St Xavier’s College, Ranchi, observed World Suicide Prevention Day on Thursday with an awareness programme aimed at…
LAVANYA ANAND
Ranchi, September 10: St Xavier’s College, Ranchi, observed World Suicide Prevention Day on Thursday with an awareness programme aimed at encouraging students to discuss mental health concerns, seek support and build resilience while dealing with personal challenges.
The programme was organised by the college’s Mental Health Club in collaboration with IQAC at the Fr. De Brouwer Auditorium.
Principal Rev. Dr. Fr. Robert Pradeep Kujur, S.J., Vice-Principal Dr. Fr. Ajay Minj, S.J., Registrar Dr. Fr. Prabhat Kennedy Soreng, S.J., Bursar Fr. Ravi Hemant Kujur, S.J., Professor-in-Charge Dr. (Fr.) Florence Purty, S.J., Dr. Fr. Ephrem Gerald Baa from the Department of History, IQAC Coordinator Dr. Shiv Kumar, Dean of Student Welfare Dr. Sanjay Kumar Sinha and Mental Health Coordinator Prof. Sandhya Bheghra attended the programme along with faculty members, heads of departments and students.
Psychologist explains warning signs, prevention measures
The programme began with a welcome address by Prof. Sandhya Bheghra, who spoke about the significance of World Suicide Prevention Day and the role of the Mental Health Club in promoting mental health awareness among students.
The ceremonial lighting of the lamp was followed by the felicitation of Dr. Indu Sulanki by the Principal.
In his address, Rev. Dr. Fr. Robert Pradeep Kujur, S.J., stressed the importance of discipline, setting priorities and making thoughtful choices in life. He also urged students to share their feelings and difficulties with others instead of dealing with them alone.
Professor Kanchita Toppo introduced Dr. Indu Sulanki, a Clinical Psychologist with a PhD in Clinical Psychology. She has served as an Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychology at different institutions and is associated with IQAC activities and committees dealing with women’s safety and welfare.
Dr. Sulanki addressed the students through a presentation on warning signs, prevention measures and safety planning. She stressed the importance of offering support and reassurance to people facing emotional difficulties.
She also highlighted self-esteem, time management and goal-setting as important elements of maintaining emotional well-being and a balanced life.
Students take part in interactive session
A documentary based on the theme was screened during the programme, followed by an interactive question-and-answer session. Students participated actively and put their questions to Dr. Sulanki.
A faculty member also addressed the gathering and encouraged students to maintain a positive outlook and support one another.
Students said the session helped them understand the importance of discussing mental health more openly on college campuses. They particularly appreciated the practical discussion on self-esteem, time management, dealing with challenges and supporting peers.
Programme highlights 2026 theme
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Professor Apurvashree Kujur, followed by the National Anthem.
The event highlighted the 2026 World Suicide Prevention Day theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide: Start the Conversation,” with speakers stressing the importance of listening, understanding and supporting people who may be going through difficult circumstances.
