By Shruti Menon Seeboo
On the occasion of International Day of Education, we are pleased to present an insightful conversation with Sanjana Gobin-Rambhojun, a clinical psychologist at LetsBe, a platform dedicated to promoting holistic well-being. This day serves as a reminder of the transformative role education plays in shaping individuals and communities for the better.
In her work, Sanjana advocates for the integration of mental health awareness within educational systems and highlights the power of education in fostering resilience, emotional intelligence, and a sense of social responsibility. Her perspective underscores how education can equip individuals with the tools to thrive emotionally, mentally, and socially.
International Day of Education focuses on the pivotal role education plays in advancing peace, social justice, and sustainability. Sanjana reflects on how education can empower learners to become agents of positive change, both in their personal lives and within their communities.
This interview offers a deeper look into the broader implications of education on mental well-being, and how it can serve as a cornerstone for personal empowerment, collective growth, and societal harmony. Excerpts:
1. As a clinical psychologist working at LetsBe, how do you see the intersection of education and mental well-being in shaping individuals and communities? What role does education play in building resilience and coping strategies for mental health?
Education serves as a foundation for fostering resilience and developing coping strategies. By integrating mental well-being into the learning experience, individuals are equipped with tools to manage stress, build self-awareness, and develop emotional intelligence. For communities, education promotes collective well-being by creating environments where individuals support one another and thrive together, leading to stronger, more resilient societies.
2. On this International Day of Education, how do you interpret the idea that the most impactful role of education in the pursuit of peace and social justice is its ability to empower learners to become agents of change in their communities? In what ways can education serve as a tool for personal empowerment and collective growth, fostering societal peace and harmony?
“Learning for Lasting Peace” highlights the role of education in fostering personal growth and societal harmony. Education empowers individuals by providing knowledge, critical thinking skills, and emotional balance, which collectively contribute to peaceful coexistence. By teaching empathy, conflict resolution, and collaborative problem-solving, education becomes a tool for both personal empowerment and building cohesive, harmonious communities.
3. In your experience, how does the concept of sustainability extend beyond environmental concerns to include emotional and psychological sustainability? How can education foster a more sustainable approach to mental health, encouraging individuals to prioritise their well-being over the long term?
Sustainability encompasses not only environmental but also emotional and psychological well-being. Education can promote sustainable mental health practices by teaching stress management, mindfulness, and the importance of self-care. These lessons encourage individuals to prioritise long-term well-being, ensuring they have the emotional resources to face life’s challenges while maintaining balance.
4. Given the global shifts in education brought about by technology and the evolving nature of the workplace, what changes do you believe need to be made to ensure education systems support not just academic achievement but also emotional intelligence and mental health awareness?
Education systems need to evolve to emphasise emotional intelligence alongside academic success. Incorporating social-emotional learning, mental health literacy, and adaptive skills can prepare students for an ever-changing world. Training educators to recognise and address emotional needs creates supportive learning environments that nurture holistic development.
5. What are some practical ways educational institutions, both formal and informal, can foster learning environments that promote peace, empathy, and understanding? How can these environments help address social divides and conflicts?
Educational institutions can promote peace and understanding by embedding empathy and collaboration into their curricula. Programs like peer support groups, inclusive activities, and service-learning projects teach students the value of diversity and cooperation. Such environments reduce social divides by encouraging dialogue and mutual respect, paving the way for harmonious communities.
6. There is still a stigma around mental health in many educational systems worldwide. What steps can educators and institutions take to integrate mental health education into their curricula to reduce stigma and provide students with the necessary tools for self-care and emotional intelligence?
To reduce stigma, educators can incorporate mental health topics into everyday lessons and discussions, normalising the conversation. Schools can provide workshops on emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and stress management while ensuring access to counselors. Highlighting stories of resilience and recovery can also inspire students to seek support without fear of judgment.
7. How do you believe individual growth, especially in terms of mental health and emotional well-being, influences collective societal growth? How can educational initiatives bridge this gap and encourage collective well-being for communities and future generations?
Individual mental health directly impacts societal well-being. When people prioritise their emotional health, they contribute more effectively to their communities. Educational initiatives can bridge this gap by fostering self-awareness, empathy, and community involvement, creating a cycle of individual and collective growth that benefits future generations.
8. How can a focus on lifelong learning help individuals maintain mental balance and peace in a constantly changing world? In your view, what key skills should individuals develop through continuous learning to foster a sense of lasting peace within themselves and their communities?
Lifelong learning encourages adaptability, curiosity, and resilience, which are crucial for maintaining mental balance. Key skills include mindfulness, effective communication, and problem-solving. By committing to personal growth, individuals can navigate change with confidence, fostering inner peace and contributing to harmonious communities.
9. As a thought leader, what would your advice be to educators and leaders who want to empower the next generation of changemakers? How can education systems be designed to not only teach academic knowledge but also inspire compassion, social responsibility, and a commitment to peace?
My advice is to prioritise holistic education that combines academic learning with emotional and social development. Schools should emphasise compassion, inclusivity, and active citizenship, inspiring students to approach challenges with empathy and a solutions-oriented mindset. By modeling these values, educators and leaders can nurture the next generation of thoughtful, responsible changemakers.
10. What changes do you think are necessary in educational systems worldwide to incorporate mental health and emotional well-being as core components of the learning process? How can we create a culture of well-being that aligns with both personal and educational goals?
To integrate mental health as a core component, education systems must include emotional well-being in their curriculum, provide access to mental health resources, and foster open communication between students, teachers, and parents. A culture of well-being can be achieved by aligning personal growth with educational objectives, ensuring that success is defined by overall fulfillment and balance.
