Central University of Tamil Nadu Hosts 14th InSPA International Conference on “Research Prospects in School Psychology”

The Central University of Tamil Nadu (CUTN), in partnership with the Indian School Psychology Association (InSPA), proudly inaugurated the 14th InSPA International Conference on “Research Prospects in School Psychology” today, a landmark event set to continue until 26th October. This prestigious conference, sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), aims to address the growing psycho-social challenges faced by students in diverse educational settings, with a special emphasis on children from varied ethnic, linguistic, and socio-economic backgrounds.

The event was inaugurated by Dr. L. Murugan, Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting & Parliamentary Affairs. He said, Our government is working for the development of our great nation across all sectors. Psychology, as a discipline, plays a critical role in every aspect of life, especially when it comes to the well-being of our students. This conference is a testament to our collective commitment to creating a safe and nurturing environment for school students.

Dr. L. Murugan, Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting & Parliamentary Affairs said, “I am delighted to note that the Central University of Tamil Nadu, Thiruvarur, in collaboration with the Indian School Psychology Association (InSPA), is hosting the 14th International Conference of InSPA from the 24th to the 26th of October 2024. The theme, “Research Prospects in School Psychology,” is both relevant and essential in today’s world. He added,” In our current era, the concepts of mental health and school psychology have become pivotal to nation-building. During the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, India proved its resilience by becoming self-reliant (Atmanirbhar), developing vaccines, and providing them free of cost to our people.

Dr. L. Murugan, Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting & Parliamentary Affairs, said, “I have seen the proceedings of the Conference and found that there are delegates from Russia, France, London, Japan, Thailand, Mauritius, and other countries. I am happy that the delegates from all over the country are largely participating in the three-day conference. I am happy to declare open the 14th InSPA International Conference on Research Prospects in School Psychology and release of five new books of InSPA.”

During the Presidential Address, Prof. M. Krishnan, Vice Chancellor of CUTN, said, Higher education is not just about earning degrees. Its true value lies in its potential to uplift communities and foster societal growth. Our mission at CUTN is to extend the benefits of higher education to the underprivileged, ensuring that the fruits of knowledge and learning reach every corner of our society.

Prof Krishnan said, CUTN is surrounded by 45 villages, and we are committed to empowering these communities. We are providing essential support such as drinking water, improved roads, solar lighting, and creating village libraries.”

He added, “Psychology, as a field, is inseparable from every aspect of life. Whether in education, industry, or social work, understanding human behaviour and mental health is key to success. We must ensure that our students don’t limit themselves to the curriculum alone but expand their horizons to tackle real-world challenges.

Prof Krishnan said Collaboration and cooperation are vital to achieving this vision. We must work hand in hand, across disciplines and with communities, to ensure that our efforts produce sustainable results. Innovation must be accessible to all, reaching the last person in the village or the most remote corner of our nation.

Key highlights of the conference include:

1. Workshops for educators and psychologists on best practices in student mental health interventions.
2. A Children’s Assembly, where local students from Thiruvarur will have the unique opportunity to engage with psychology experts.
3. An Awards Ceremony celebrating exceptional contributions to school psychology, including the InSPA Educational Excellence Award and the Dr. D. Rajendran Best School Counsellor Award.

Book Releases: One of the key highlights of the inaugural function was the release of several groundbreaking books in the field of school psychology:

1. “Technology in the Practice of School Psychology” by Prof. Panch. Ramalingam and Dr. Jerina Begum, exploring the integration of technology in school psychology.
2. “Sustainable Development Goals: Challenges and Initiatives” by Prof. Panch. Ramalingam, and Dr. Pradeep Kumar, examining how the SDGs align with educational and psychological practices.
3. “Studies on Cognitive and Emotional Development Perspectives” by Prof. N.K. Saksena, delving into student mental health in India.
4. “The Changing Landscape of School Psychology” by T. Ganesan and Dr. J. Hangal, focusing on international perspectives on modern psychological practices.
5. “Applying Psychology for Professional Excellence” by Prof. M.V.R. Raju, targeting professionals aiming to bridge academic psychology and practical application.
6. In addition to the book releases, Dr. R. Parameswaran unveiled the Conference Special Volume of the InSPA Journal of Applied and School Psychology, further enriching academic discourse.

As InSPA President, Prof. Panch. Ramalingam, noted, “The theme of this year’s conference resonates deeply with the broader educational context in India, particularly with the focus on neurodiversity and inclusive education. We are excited to be a part of this transformative dialogue.”

Dr. V Vithya delivered the welcome address emphasizing the university’s ongoing commitment to mental health and inclusive education and Prof. P. Srinivasan, Dean of the School of Behavioral Sciences at CUTN, delivered the vote of thanks.

The inauguration was attended by Prof R. Thirumurugan, Registrar, Shri. CA GR Giridharan, Finance Officer, Prof Sulochana Shekhar, Controller of Examination, Dr. R. Parameshwaran, Librarian, faculty and students.