Bhubaneswar: An extramural lecture on “Mental Health: Healthy Mind, Healthy Classroom” was organised by the first-year B.Ed. students of the University Department of Teacher’s Education (UDTE) at Utkal University here on Tuesday.
The programme was graced by Prof. Rabindra Garada, coordinator of UDTE as the chief guest along with co-coordinator of UDTE Dr. Swayam Prava Mishra and Dr. Papes Kumar Lenka as guests of honour. The session focused on the crucial relationship between education and mental well-being.
Prof. Garada explained the rising student stress using a simple idea: Stress = Pressure ÷ Resilience. In traditional classrooms, pressure was strict but predictable; in modern ones, competition increased it. In postmodern classrooms, constant comparison and perfectionism make stress even higher, he added.
He argued that pressure cannot be removed, but stress can be reduced by building resilience—through regular work, avoiding pending tasks, and staying focused. Doing less work with clarity and dedication is more effective than overloading oneself. Thus, better time management and a disciplined mindset help students control stress and maintain mental well-being, he said.
Dr. Tanaya Mohanty spoke on pedagogy and social inequality, highlighting how educational systems and social structures shape learning experiences and emphasizing inclusive teaching practices. In the second session, Dr. Jasmeet Kaur discussed mental health awareness, distinguishing it from mental illness and stressing the importance of self-awareness, emotional balance, and timely support. The programme concluded with an interactive session, reinforcing that a healthy mind is essential for fostering a positive and effective classroom environment.