The University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) observed World Mental Health Day with a series of activities designed to promote mental health awareness and support among its student community. The event, organised by the university’s Student Counselling and Accessibility Services Department, took place across campus and encouraged students to engage in creative expression, dialogue, and wellness initiatives.
Central to the programme was an Art and Photography Exhibition showcasing entries from the “Your Voice, Your Story, Your Well-being” competition, which invited students to convey their personal experiences and perspectives on mental health through artistic media. Donna Grace Ziganay’s work, titled The Trap I Wove, earned first place, while Dalal Humran’s The Pulse Behind Silence received second place. The exhibition aimed to foster inclusivity and deepen understanding of the mental health challenges faced by students.
In addition to the exhibition, participants took part in discussions addressing mental health topics and received information about the university’s available support services and resources. Several competitions were also held to further engage students in mental wellness practices.
Fahad Al Hajri, vice-president of Student Affairs at UDST, highlighted the university’s commitment to mental health as an essential component of overall wellbeing and academic success. He emphasised that educational institutions have a duty to create supportive environments and provide services to help students overcome challenges. “Mental health is an integral part of health and well-being in its broader sense,” Al Hajri said. “We are pleased to organise this event, along with other activities throughout the academic year, to raise awareness of the importance of mental health and highlight the resources and services offered by the University to support our students in this area.”
The World Mental Health Day event is part of UDST’s 2025–2027 Wellness Strategy, which aims to encourage healthy practices across mental, physical, and social dimensions of wellbeing. The Student Counselling and Accessibility Services Department plays a key role in offering counselling and support to assist students in managing academic and personal issues.
Beyond mental health services, UDST provides extensive sports and recreational facilities—including fitness centers, swimming pools, and sports courts—to promote physical activity and balanced lifestyles among students and staff. As a holder of the FISU Healthy Campus Platinum label, the university continues to advance a comprehensive approach to wellness, fostering an environment that supports the health needs of its entire community.