By : Mrs. Ayna Marliana binti Mohamad Sari

SERDANG, 25 May - The Counselling Division of Universiti Putra Malaysia (BKUPM) received a strategic benchmarking visit from the Counselling Unit of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) on Tuesday, 20 May 2025. The visit involved six officers from the Counselling Unit, Student Development and Alumni Affairs Division (BHEPA), USM, and was held in the BKUPM Meeting Room from 2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The main purpose of the visit was to establish strategic cooperation and strengthen best practices in counselling services between these two leading Malaysian research universities. Additionally, it provided a platform for exchanging knowledge and ideas to improve psychosocial support systems in higher education institutions.

The visit began with the arrival of the USM delegation at 2:00 p.m., warmly welcomed by officers from UPM’s Counselling Division. The session continued with a welcome speech followed by presentations on the organizational structure, functions, roles, and counselling service procedures at UPM. The discussion also highlighted the professional approaches employed in addressing mental health issues among students.

A Q&A session with the Psychology Officers allowed visitors to gain deeper insights into the daily practices and current challenges faced by UPM’s Counselling Division. The USM delegation was also given a tour of the counselling workspaces and service areas, alongside a briefing and feedback session regarding the implementation of the Public Sector Conducive Ecosystem (EKSA).

The program concluded with a group photo in the Counselling Division foyer before participants dispersed at 4:30 p.m. This visit opened opportunities for ongoing collaboration to strengthen the role of counselling as a cornerstone of campus wellbeing.

According to Dr. Mazila, Head of the Counselling Division at UPM, the visit was more than just an exchange of information - it was a meaningful meeting that strengthened professional bonds between two institutions committed to enhancing the psychological wellbeing of campus communities.

“We truly appreciate the willingness of the Counselling Unit, BHEPA, USM to visit UPM and share valuable experiences and perspectives. We hope this partnership marks the beginning of closer collaboration that goes beyond visits - towards the holistic and sustainable development of human capital among students,” she said, full of hope.

BKUPM expresses its highest gratitude for the visit and looks forward to continuing to strengthen this strategic relationship for mutual benefit in the increasingly challenging landscape of higher education.

Date of Input: 25/05/2025 | Updated: 25/05/2025 | ayna