The School of Criminology and Behavioral Sciences, under the aegis of Rashtriya Raksha University, an Institution of National Importance dedicated to providing comprehensive security education, has conducted a brainstorming workshop on “Applied Psychology/Behavioral Health Landscape” with Working Group of Experts under the chairpersonship of Dr. S.L. Vaya, Chief Mentor of the School of Criminology and Behavioral Sciences in collaboration with the esteemed members of Interim Commission for Allied & Healthcare Professions (ICAHP) Curriculum Committee. This workshop aims to review the existing curriculum and scenarios of the Behavioral Health professions and challenges, covering issues of categories of available professionals, role demarcation, as well as national and global nomenclature compatibility.

The inauguration of the Workshop took place today in the presence of Dr. Bimal N. Patel, Vice Chancellor of RRU, Dr. S.L. Vaya, Dr. Kavita Narayan, Sr. Technical Advisor, HRH, MoHFW, and Dr. Poonam Meena, DS, AHS MoHFW.

Through this collaborative workshop, SCBS and ICAHP aim to provide a structured curriculum for the Working group of experts on behavioral health landscape along with high-quality training programs that align with industry standards and requirements. The agenda of this workshop was to discuss the nomenclature of new roles and curriculum that will meet the growing demand of professionals in the behavioral healthcare sector. The new course curriculum programs will equip participants with essential knowledge and practical skills necessary for a successful career in the Behavioral healthcare industry. The curated programmes will be designed and delivered efficiently to ensure accessibility for individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Dr. S.L. Vaya, Chief mentor of the School of Criminology and Behavioral Sciences, and the Chairperson of the workshop, in today’s discussion, highlighted that the role of Applied Psychologists would be broadened to deal with all problems that are not related to clinical illnesses.

Underprivileged youth from a diverse population, who aspire to work in the field of behavioral healthcare will benefit immensely from these programmes. Dr. Kavita Narayan, Sr. Technical Advisor, HRH, MoHFW, pointed out the need to diversify the field of psychology into different specialisations, giving the students a chance to explore and establish a career in a field of their interest. By acquiring industry-relevant skills, they will enhance their employability prospects and contribute to the growth of the mental healthcare sector.

Dr. Manas Kumar Mandal, Distinguished Visiting Professor at Indian Institute of Technology - Kharagpur and Emeritus Resource Faculty of SCBS, with respect to the purpose of new programmes, stated that “Our focus shall be orienting students towards their job-based career (professional enrichment in areas like startups, guidance & counseling, testing & evaluation, rehabilitation, market survey, criminal investigation, advertising & media, etc.) as well as research based-career where students get an opportunity to work on social problems to provide grass-root solutions to everyday challenges.” Additionally, individuals will have the opportunity to up-skill themselves, enabling career advancement and professional development.

(Prof.) Dr. L. Sam Sudheer Manickam, Professor of Clinical Psychology, brought focus on the role of psychologists in facilitating the Nation’s development by developing and working on the overall economic, social and mental wellbeing of every individual at grassroot levels.

In discussing the nomenclature and review of the existing curriculum, Professor (Dr.) Bimal N. Patel, Vice-Chancellor of RRU, highlighted RRU's mission and its commitment to developing top-notch professionals equipped to serve the nation. He emphasized the crucial role of research and education in interdisciplinary fields for the betterment of the future of this developing nation.

This workshop signifies a commitment to excellence, empowerment, and inclusivity, heralding a brighter future for the allied and mental healthcare industry and those seeking to make a meaningful impact within it.

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