Counseling Center - University of Sargodha

27/09/2025

Mental Health week 2025 celebration of Phase-I part-II, has been completed by the Department of Psychology, University of Sargodha.
In a significant push for community health education, the Department of Psychology, in strategic collaboration with the University’s Counselling Centre at the University of Sargodha, successfully conducted a comprehensive week-long series of events focused on Physical Wellness and Well-being of Women: Breast cancer awareness, Breast Self Examination Certification and women’s empowerment. Held from September 22nd to 26th, 2025, the initiative # # was thoughtfully aligned with the upcoming World Mental Health Day’s theme, "Community: Supporting Mental Well-being Together," masterfully bridging the critical gap between physical health and psychological wellness.

Day One set the stage with a foundational Breast Cancer Awareness and Knowledge Sharing Sessions held in partnership with Iqra Girls College. The sessions were galvanized by esteemed expert Dr. Mohammad Ilyas Khan, a global leader in women’s health, who delivered a compelling address on “Breast Health Awareness and Prevention.” He shared invaluable insights on the life-saving importance of early detection and demystified the process of regular self-examinations, effectively empowering attendees with initial knowledge and a sense of agency over their health.

Building on this momentum, Days Two and Three were dedicated to an intensive, Comprehensive Certificate Training Series on Breast Self-Examination. The inauguration was presided over by the Honourable Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Qaiser Abbas, who emphatically underscored academia's pivotal role as a catalyst for social change. His address highlighted the university's commitment to women’s wellness through academic excellence, research, and direct community outreach. This vision was strongly supported by the presence of the Pro-Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Masood Sarwar Awan, the Principals of Colleges, and Chairs of Departments. Under Dr. Khan's expert guidance, over 400 participants engaged in detailed learning, covering breast anatomy, risk factors, and practical BSE techniques, successfully translating awareness into actionable skill.

The initiative reached its peak on Day Four with a sophisticated Master Training session on Clinical Breast Examination. The day was notably enriched by a special online address from Dr. Tooba Ilyas Khan, a Psychiatry Registrar with the Royal College of Psychiatrists, UK. Her session, "Women’s Mental Health in South Asia: What We See, What We Miss, and What Helps," provided a critical lens on the stigma and cultural barriers impacting mental wellbeing, seamlessly connecting physical health management with essential psychological support. This was followed by a practical training session led by Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan. He provided hands-on instruction in professional clinical examination techniques, teaching participants how to properly check for warning signs. Dr. Khan also emphasized the essential aspects of patient care, including clear communication, obtaining consent, and ensuring patient dignity throughout the process. This equipped attendees with both the technical skills and the sensitivity needed to conduct these important exams effectively.

The added features of day three, Four and Five are focused special focused lectures on specialized interdisciplinary applications, with tailored workshops for distinct academic departments like Department of Sociology and criminology, Institute of Education, Department of Social Work and Institute of Food Science. Dr khan elucidated the formal approaches and ethical frameworks of Sociology and clinical social work in women's health, discussing specific interventions and the vital role of sociologists, educationist and clinical social workers play in community wellness. Subsequently, a collaborative workshop with the Department of Food Science and Technology fostered a productive dialogue on the intersection of breastfeeding, medicine, and nutrition, highlighting how integrated knowledge is crucial for maternal and child health.

Bringing the impactful week to a formal close, Professor Dr. Najma Iqbal Malik, Chairperson Department of Psychology, extended her heartfelt gratitude to the experts, collaborators Iqra Girls College, Ambala Muslim college, Post Graduate college for women Chandani chowk and participants. She powerfully reframed the event not as a conclusion, but as the beginning of a sustained journey. “This milestone reinforces our department’s unwavering commitment to holistic well-being,” she stated. “We are not just ending a week of activities; we are igniting a lasting movement of awareness and support within our community, and we look forward to building on this progress in our future endeavors.” With upcoming collaborations planned with SOS Village Sargodha and Fountain House Lahore, the Counseling center and Department of Psychology reaffirms its pivotal role in advancing health and wellness across the region.

26/09/2025

Master Training on Clinical Breast Examination

We're thrilled to report on the success of our 4th and final day Master Training (Training of Trainers) session, where over 300 students, faculty members, and collaborators came together to learn about Clinical Breast Examination! 🤝 This session aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary for conducting effective breast examinations.

The day began with an insightful session led by *Dr. Tooba Ilyas Khan*, Psychiatry Registrar, Member of the Royal College of Psychiatry Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Foundation Trust (BSMHFT) & Birmingham Women and Children’s Trust (BWC), and Honorary College Tutor West Midlands, Graduate from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCPSYCH, MB B*h BAO (NUI), LRCSI, LRCPI). Her expertise in women's mental health shed light on the critical aspects of mental health in South Asia, highlighting the importance of addressing stigma, cultural barriers, and access to care. Dr. Tooba's session, "Women’s Mental Health in South Asia: What We See, What We Miss, and What Helps", provided a nuanced understanding of the region's specific challenges and opportunities.

This was followed by a comprehensive training on Clinical Breast Examination, led by renowned expert *Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan*, a distinguished specialist in women's health and breastfeeding innovation. Under Dr. Khan's guidance, participants gained a deeper understanding of breast anatomy, learned techniques for inspection and palpation, including how to identify asymmetry, skin changes, and abnormal breast secretions. They also understood the importance of patient communication, consent, and chaperone presence during intimate examinations. Dr. Khan's expertise and engaging presentation style made complex topics accessible and understandable.

We're grateful for the collaboration and support from our esteemed partners:
- *Prof. Dr. Safana Masood*, Principal, Govt. Postgraduate College for Women, Chandni Chowk
- *Prof. Dr. Azhar Raja*, Principal, Ambala Muslim College
- *Mr. Zahid Mehmood*, Principal, Iqra Girls College Sargodha

The concluding remarks were delivered by *Professor Dr. Najma Iqbal Malik*, HOD, Department of Psychology, University of Sargodha, who extended her heartfelt gratitude to the speakers, Dr. Tooba Ilyas Khan and Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan, and our esteemed collaborators for their invaluable contributions. Prof. Dr. Najma emphasized that this milestone marks not the end, but the beginning of our journey towards empowering women and promoting breast health awareness. She reiterated our dedication to this noble cause and looked forward to continued collaboration and progress. 🙏💕

26/09/2025

Empowering Women through Breast Cancer Awareness

Day 3 of our Certificate Training program marked the culmination of our efforts to empower women with knowledge and skills to tackle breast cancer. 🤝 Over 400 students participated in the engaging and informative session led by renowned expert Dr. Mohammad Ilyas Khan. 🌟

Dr. Khan covered key topics including breast cancer basics, anatomy, risk factors, prevention, breast self-examination (BSE), screening methods, and treatment options. He emphasized the critical importance of early detection, highlighting how regular screening and breast awareness can significantly improve treatment outcomes and survival rates. By understanding breast anatomy and recognizing normal breast tissue, women can identify abnormalities and seek medical attention promptly. Dr. Khan's expertise and engaging presentation style made complex topics accessible and understandable. 💡

We're grateful to Dr. Khan for sharing his expertise and insights with us, and we congratulate all participants on completing the Certificate Training program! 🙏 Let's continue to spread awareness and support one another in the fight against breast cancer. 💕 "

23/09/2025

Day-02
In alignment with the forthcoming observance of World Mental Health Day and its theme “Supporting Mental Well-Being Together”, the Department of Psychology, in collaboration with the Counselling Centre, University of Sargodha, has initiated a comprehensive series of academic and community-oriented activities. These initiatives are designed to sensitize and empower both students and faculty, with a particular focus on female participants, by addressing the interdependent continuum of physical and mental health.
A significant component of this initiative commenced on 23rd September 2025 with the inauguration of the Comprehensive Certificate Training Series on Breast Self-Examination entitled “Sharing Knowledge about the Science of Women’s Wellness and Well-being” (23rd–25th September 2025), hosted at MFKNBS. The program holds strategic relevance to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), underscoring the imperative of ensuring accessible health literacy and preventive practices.
The Honourable Vice Chancellor formally chaired the inaugural session, Prof. Dr Qaiser Abbas, who underscored the proactive role of academia in fostering women’s wellness and well-being through academic excellence, research, policy advocacy, internationalisation, community outreach, and collaborative engagement.
The expert resource person, Prof. Dr. Mohammad Ilyas Khan—a Certified Lactation Consultant (Pakistan & Qatar) and Mammacare Breast Specialist (USA)—delivered an insightful session emphasizing the criticality of breast health awareness, early detection, and regular self-examination. He further elaborated on the interrelationship between breast health, women’s holistic well-being, and the role of community support in sustaining mental wellness.
The seminar provided an interactive platform enabling participants to acquire knowledge, reflect critically on preventive strategies for breast cancer, and recognize the importance of prioritizing personal health. Dr Khan Has also donated the Certificate and registration fee of this International Level training to Students of Sargodha University. The Counselling Centre and Department of Psychology extended this initiative by engaging principals, chairpersons, female faculty members, and students across multiple academic units, including the Department of Sociology and Criminology, Department of Political Science, Department of Social Work, as well as affiliated institutions such as Iqra Girls College, Government Ambala Muslim College, and Government College for Women, Chandni Chowk. he event was attended by 400+ female students and we are grate full the support of Worthy Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Qaiser Abbas, Dean Faculty of Social Sciences and Pro VC Prof Dr Masood Sarwar Awan and Director ORIC Prof Dr Ahmed Raza Bilal for their support.

23/09/2025

Day-01
Empowering Women through Breast Cancer Awareness
In connection with the upcoming World Mental Health Day 2025, the Counselling Centre and the Department of Psychology at the University of Sargodha initiated a comprehensive series of events to embrace the global theme "Community: Supporting Mental Well-being Together". We are thrilled to announce the successful hosting of our Breast Cancer Awareness Seminar, organized by the Department of Psychology and Counseling Center, University of Sargodha, in collaboration with Iqra Girls College, Sargodha!

The seminar marked the beginning of Phase II of our events, which focuses on knowledge sharing seminars and community outreach. The event aimed to create insight and empowerment at the critical intersection of physical and psychological wellness, with a particular emphasis on breast cancer. Our esteemed speaker, Dr. Mohammad Ilyas Khan, introduced the topic “Breast Health Awareness and Prevention” by sharing valuable insights on the importance of breast health and early detection.

Dr. Mohammad Ilyas Khan is a Global Leader in women’s health and breastfeeding innovation. He is a distinguished physician with over 22 years of clinical experience at Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar, specializing in Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Public Health. Dr. Khan's pioneering work in women’s health, particularly in breastfeeding medicine and maternal wellbeing, has earned international recognition and helped transform healthcare systems across the Gulf region. He is a Certified Lactation Consultant (Pakistan & Qatar), Mammacare Breast Specialist, and Professor of Public Health.

During the seminar, Dr. Khan shared valuable insights on breast health awareness and prevention, emphasizing the importance of early detection and regular self-examinations. He highlighted the significance of breast health in women's overall well-being and the role of community support in promoting mental well-being. The seminar provided a platform for attendees to gain knowledge and understanding of breast cancer prevention and the importance of prioritizing their health.

A huge thank you to Dr. Mohammad Ilyas Khan for sharing his expertise and valuable insights with us. We also extend our gratitude to everyone who attended the seminar, making it a resounding success! Your participation and enthusiasm were instrumental in making this event a memorable one. We look forward to continuing our efforts in promoting breast health awareness and supporting mental well-being in our community.

17/09/2025

The Department of Psychology, University of Sargodha, is bringing 03 days workshop on Breast Self Examination: A Step Towards Self-care and Personal Well-being.
Date: 23 – 25 September 2025
Timing: 08:00 AM
Venue: MFKNB Auditorium
We’re privileged to host Dr. Mohammad Ilyas Khan, internationally recognized Mammacare Certified Breast Specialist (USA) and former consultant, Obs & Gynae Department, WWRC Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.
This isn’t just another workshop, it’s about:
Learning how small steps can save lives.
Building confidence in caring for yourself.
Spreading awareness that empowers women & families.
This meaningful initiative is being organized under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Najma Iqbal Malik, Chairperson, Department of Psychology, University of Sargodha. With her consistent vision of linking psychological well-being to physical health, she has been at the forefront of introducing awareness programs that empower individuals, especially women, to take charge of their health through knowledge, confidence, and preventive practices.

17/09/2025

05/09/2025

For World Mental Health Day 2025, the Counselling Centre and Department of Psychology launched an initiative to support the global theme of community. Phase I began with a September 5th webinar focusing on the critical link between physical and psychological wellness, using breast cancer as an example to foster empowerment, resilience, and early intervention. The keynote speaker, Dr. Mohammad Ilyas Khan, Certified Lactation Consultant (Pakistan & Qatar) | Mammacare Breast Specialist, USA | Professor of Public Health, has introduced the topic “Breast Self-Examination: A Step Towards Self-Care and Personal Well-Being” by sharing valuable insights on Breast health awareness and prevention.Dr. Khan is a globally recognized physician and leader in women's health. With over 22 years in Obstetrics and Gynaecology in Qatar, his pioneering work in breastfeeding and maternal wellbeing has transformed healthcare in the Gulf region. The webinar session was attended physically and online by 400+ female students from various departments at the University of Sargodha, including the Department of Psychology, Department of Sociology and Criminology, and Department of Social Work, as well as affiliated colleges such as Iqra Girls College, Government Ambala Muslim College, and Government College for Women, Chandni Chowk. Students actively participated in learning about self-care and early detection. Prof. Dr. Najma Iqbal Malik concluded by announcing a practical workshop on Self-Breast Examination (Sept 16-18, 2025), a concrete step that puts the theme of "community well-being" into action through continuous, incremental change.

01/03/2024

13/01/2023

Under the theme of industry linkages and community engagement, 150 students from the psychology department have completed “LOT Quality Assurance Sampling (LQAS) methodology training to work as supervisors and Surveyors in quality assessment with Provincial Team Lead WHO, Punjab Lahore in Polio Eradication Campaign since May 2022 in four badges.
The training was provided by Mr Malik Ahmed Shiraz, Certified Trainer on the WHO panel. This was first-hand practical field exposure for Psychology students and logistic support and a stipend was paid to them by WHO.
The Sargodha division team of WHO have awarded certificates to students who successfully completed two consecutive field campaigns and Dr Atique, head of the Sargodha division Pakistan Polio Team praised students’ performance as the quality survey results were 100%.
The certificates distribution ceremony was graced by Dr Ghulam Abbas, Dean Faculty of Arts and Humanities who further motivated and encouraged students to take an active role in opportunities with practical exposure and community engagement programs and play their productive role in illness prevention and health promotion.

13/01/2023

Certificate training on “Psychological First Aid” dated 12th January 2023, was provided by Malik Ahmed Shiraz, Training Co-Ordinator, Health Directorate, Peshawar to students of Psychology. He highlighted the utilization of the RAPID model (Reflective Listening, Assessment, Prioritization, Intervention, and Disposition), for the practice of recognizing and responding to people experiencing crisis-related stress, and how this model can be used to help oneself and others to cope in the face of stressful events/ disasters and crisis.
Dr Ghulam Abbas, Dean Faculty of Arts and Humanities shared his personal experiences of working with disaster management programs and highlighted the prime role of psychologists in society for sustainable mental health and well-being. Certificates were awarded to participants of workshops.

13/01/2023

On 12th January 2023, Department of Psychology and Counseling Centre has organized two -one-day Training workshops for students and teachers. In connection to teachers’ capacity-building training, the workshop focused on teacher leadership in HEIs: The positive strength model for sustaining emotional and psychological wellness.
Furthermore, this workshop addressed the strategies used by teacher leaders to impart collaborative learning for harnessing students towards deep learning.
Guest speaker Dr Sidra Asif, Sessional academic expert at Canberra Business school Australia highlighted the role of collaborative learning and stressed that to impart effective learning teachers must become innovative and develop strategies to manage, assess and evaluate collaborative learning activities. It is the need of time that we must develop a culture of students as peer tutors /learning/teaching collaborators.
Dr Mohsin Atta and Dr Najma Malik highlighted that being teachers we must be emotionally and psychologically sound and be eager to opt for continuous emotional and professional development.
Dr Aneela Maqsood (FJWU) endorsed that the psychological and emotional wellness model must be a permanent part of the faculty training module. Teachers from Govt Ambala Muslim College Sargodha, the Department of Education, the Department of Psychology, and the University College of Engineering and Technology participated physically in the workshop whereas faculty members from the university of Gujrat and Fatima Jinnah Women University Rawalpindi Joined through an online link.