MARGAO: The Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (GSCPCR) has announced that it would bolster mental health care services within educational institutions across Goa, by suggesting that skilled professionals capable of supporting the mental health needs of students be included within the school support system.
According to GSCPCR chairperson Peter F Borges, this move is in tune with the Commission’s duty to uphold the convention on the rights of the child and focuses on improving care for children requiring special protection.
“The Commission has identified an urgent need for a larger and more qualified pool of mental health professionals in schools, which has led to the recommendation for the expansion of discipline degrees within counselling services. Specifically, the Goa Educational Development Corporation is urged to update its scheme to include people with qualifications such as Wellness Counselling and relax the experience required. This is expected to rapidly increase the availability of skilled professionals capable of supporting the mental health needs of students,” Borges said.
Furthermore, GSCPCR has proposed what it described as a crucial update to the syllabus and standards of practice for counselling degree programmes.
The updated curriculum, according to GSCPCR, will integrate modern therapeutic techniques and digital-age counselling practices, focusing on developmental psychology to better equip future mental health professionals to address the challenges faced by today’s youth.
“These initiatives are expected to significantly enhance the mental health support system within Goa’s schools, addressing the current shortfall in mental healthcare professionals and improving the quality of care provided,” Borges added.
The Commission has requested an action-taken report from the Directorate of Education within 30 days, underscoring the urgency of these measures.
“The mental health of our children is a priority that cannot be overlooked. With these recommendations, we are taking a significant step towards ensuring that every child in Goa has access to quality mental healthcare. This initiative is not only about addressing current needs but also about building a foundation for a healthier future for our next generations,” Borges added.
