As adaptability and flexibility tend to turn-heads amid the social distancing norms, Zayed University (ZU) took it a step further, by offering Counseling Services, online.
Dr. Hind Alrustamani, Acting Assistant Provost – Students Affairs Deanship, said that the move incubates the growing need to maintain the psychological well-being of the ZU community. Services include online sessions, consultations, and health tips; attained from weekly developed sources.
The Student Counseling Center (SCC) is aligned with the University’s vision of preparing successful and adaptable graduates while remaining an active part of the ZU community. “To that effect, we are developing and liaising with local and global partners to offer innovative online services and programs to support our students. We are committed to remaining informative and accessible to the ZU community through these times of change and uncertainty.”
She further indicated that the SCC is committed to supporting the ZU community during the current major transition from campus to computer. “Counseling services are provided online for all students as well as offering alternative resources for those who can’t attend online sessions,” she said. Besides, she stated that the SCC services are extended to include faculty and staff by developing online resources to raise awareness and support their needs.
“SCC dedicated an online support team, which includes senior professional counselors; three located in Abu Dhabi and two in Dubai, plus the Director of SCC,” Dr. Alrustamani said. “Our outreach Officers come from highly experienced psychology backgrounds. They are actively raising awareness and sharing resources with the ZU community on a regular basis . They also follow up and support members of the ZU community on a one to one basis to accommodate the needs of the colleges and internal departments.”
She added, “Our officers are following up with online meetings and schedule appointments for new students who require counseling services. Our team is fully functioning with extended services to support the whole Zayed University community – students, faculty and staff alike.”
Alrustamani mentioned that the online shift came in line with the current public health concerns regarding COVID-19, which has affected many areas around the world. “Almost everyone is striving to adjust and cope with the new situation, and we came up with a solution that I believe could benefit our community. The psychological well-being of the University community in trying times is vital. It is our priority as SCC to ensure that our members are not simply just coping but are actually thriving despite the circumstances. “
