STUDENT COUNSELLING POLICY & PROCEDURE

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish a structured, accessible, and effective counselling framework that supports students’ academic success, personal and mental well‑being, and career development. This policy aligns with SZABMU’s expectations for student support and guidance in affiliated institutes.

Scope

This policy applies to all enrolled students of Midwest Institute of Sciences in programs conducted under SZABMU affiliation. Counselling services include but are not limited to:

• Academic counselling
• Personal and mental health counselling
• Career and professional counselling
  

Definitions

• Counselling: A professional and supportive process to assist students in addressing academic, personal, psychological, or career‑related concerns.
• Counsellor: A qualified individual (internal or external) trained in student guidance and support, either in mental health or career development.
• Student: Any individual officially enrolled in an SZABMU‑affiliated program at the Institute.

Policy Statements

• The Institute shall provide confidential, professional counselling services to students to support academic progress, emotional well‑being, and career planning.
• Counselling services shall be voluntary, non‑judgmental, and student‑centered, promoting dignity and respect.
• Students are encouraged to seek counselling without stigma or academic penalty.
• Counselling information is confidential and shall not be shared without written consent, except where required for safety or legal compliance.
• Career counselling shall include guidance on career pathways, internships, job preparation, further studies, and professional development.
• Referral to specialized external services (medical, psychological, professional) shall be available when appropriate.
• The Institute shall ensure counselling practices are periodically reviewed to remain aligned with SZABMU standards and best practices.

Counselling Procedures

 Accessing Counselling Services

1. Students may request counselling through the Student Affairs Office, Counselling Coordinator, or designated faculty/staff.
2. Requests may be made in person, by email, or via a secure online form where available.
3. Initial intake should be scheduled within five (5) working days of the request.

 Intake and Assessment

1. The counsellor conducts an initial meeting to assess the student’s concerns, including academic, personal/mental health, and career issues.
2. An individual support plan is developed based on the student’s needs.
3. The plan may include: follow‑up meetings, referrals, workshops, and targeted interventions.

 Academic Counselling

       Academic counselling provides students with guidance on:

1. Study strategies and academic planning
2. Time management and stress related to studies
3. Course selections and academic goals in relation to program requirements

 Personal & Mental Health Counselling

1. Counsellors support students experiencing emotional distress, anxiety, adjustment challenges, or other personal concerns.
2. Confidential support is offered with appropriate follow‑up.
3. Students requiring specialized clinical support will be referred to qualified external mental health professionals.

 Career & Professional Counselling

Career counselling includes:

1. Career exploration aligned with student interests and program pathways
2. Internship search support and workplace readiness
3. CV/resume writing, interview skills, networking advice
4. Guidance on professional certifications, postgraduate study options, and employment trends.

 Confidentiality and Record‑Keeping

1. All counselling sessions are confidential and records are securely stored.
2. Information is shared only with student consent or where there is risk of harm.
3. Records will be retained according to relevant institutional data protection standards.

 Follow‑Up and Monitoring

1. Counsellors monitor progress through follow‑up appointments or check‑ins.
2. Support plans are adjusted based on ongoing assessment.

 Referrals

1. Students requiring support beyond the Institute’s internal capabilities will be referred appropriately to external specialists (e.g., licensed psychologists, career consultants, medical professionals).
2. Referrals are followed up to ensure continuity of support.

Roles and Responsibilities

 Counselling Coordinator / Counsellors

1. Provide counselling and support based on student needs.
2. Maintain confidentiality and professional records.
3. Coordinate referrals and follow‑up plans.

 Student Affairs Office

1. Facilitate access to counselling services.
2. Promote awareness of available support.
3. Assist with coordination between departments.

 Programme Heads / Faculty

1. Encourage students to use counselling services when appropriate.
2. Support academic accommodations when recommended.

 Students

1. Engage actively and honestly in counselling.
2. Attend scheduled sessions as agreed.
3. Respect confidentiality and participate constructively in the process.

Review and Compliance

The counselling policy and procedures shall be reviewed periodically to ensure effectiveness and alignment with SZABMU expectations and best practices. Revisions shall reflect changes in institutional needs, student feedback, and relevant higher education standards.