UD holds first Counseling Week

They formed part of the activities of the "First Counseling Week" for the academic year 2007-2008. The programme was sponsored by the National Bank of Dubai.

The event aimed to raise awareness and educate students on psychological health and well-being and introduce them to preventive techniques that would help them through the stresses and anxieties that might hinder their academic life. It also aimed to enhance their social and personal skills in handling obstacles and hurdles successfully and to achieve psychological, social and professional balance, besides academic excellence.

Many renowned experts and presenters participated in the event. Dr. Raad Haydar Al Khaiat, head of Psychiatry Department in Al Amal Hospital (for psychiatry)- Dubai, introduced the audience to the subject of "Presentation and communication skills." He emphasized its significance in achieving success. He also touched on the reasons behind severe shyness and social phobia which could hinder university students from social life or while interacting with colleagues.

Al Khayat also stressed the important role of the family and social institutions in developing individual communication skills. He explained that severe shyness and social phobia are pathologic conditions requiring medical treatment and specialized attention.

Dr. Gertraud Kinne, lecturer of psychology in UAE University (UAEU), spoke about "Time Management" discussing its importance, and explained the best means of utilizing time wisely and efficiently. She spoke on overcoming distractions and wastage of time and emphasized the need of organizing oneself to make the best use of the time available for both short and long terms.

Dr. Nasser Al Amri, vice-dean for students' affairs at the UAEU, concluded the activities of the "First Counseling Week" with a lecture on "Students' attitudes and its relation to self achievement." He explained both concepts and the way they interact together in developing students' attitudes at the university. He also pinpointed positive and negative attitudes of students that influence their personalities. He discussed techniques to develop students' personal and social lives, in addition to enhancing their leadership skills.