Indian educational systems are recognized for their intrinsic commitment to social upliftment alongside individual development, offering a foundational model for global well-being, said Prof. Carol D. Ryff, Director of the Institute on Aging at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA.
She was delivering the keynote address at the inaugural session of the international seminar “Breaking Barriers: Advancing Psychological Well-Being Across Borders” organized by the Psychology Department of the SDM Postgraduate Center as part of its silver jubilee celebrations at the Indraprastha Auditorium on December 13. Prof. Ryff highlighted India’s exemplary traditional practices and cultural heritage, which have shaped innovative educational commitments. She noted that these systems significantly enhance pathways for personal, community, and societal development, contributing meaningfully to global psychological well-being.
Shraddha Amit, CEO of Kshemavana in Bengaluru, inaugurated the seminar and emphasized the pivotal role psychology plays in fostering social upliftment.
Presiding over the event, Dr. B.A. Kumar Hegde, Principal of SDM College, said, “Physical and mental health are crucial for human well-being. The intellectual and theoretical potential of psychology research expands our understanding of these aspects, aiding in overall progress.”
Dr. Satishchandra S., Secretary of SDM Educational Society, commended the contributions of Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, Dharmadhikari of Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala, for his efforts in addressing daily life challenges through spiritual counseling models. He lauded the psychology department for carrying forward this legacy of holistic support.
As part of Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project, the ‘Gelathi’ initiative with its seven centers across the state has benefited from psychological educational frameworks, Dr. Satishchandra noted. Dr. M.Y. Manjula, former head of the SDM Psychology Department with 18 years of service, recounted significant milestones achieved by the department. A documentary titled “Silver Threads of Thoughts” was released by Shraddha Amit on this occasion.
Faculty members who contributed to the department over the past 25 years were honored at the event. The seminar featured a session by Dr. Sumit Dutta, a psychologist and visiting resource person from the International Institute of Peace and Development Studies, Thailand. Also present were Dr. Vishwanath P., Dean of the SDM Postgraduate Center, and Dr. Vandana Jain, Head of the Psychology Department, who welcomed the gathering. The organizing secretary, Ashwini Shetty, proposed the vote of thanks, and students Alisha and Jahnavi compered the event.