On July 8-10, 2026, the IAJU Taskforce on Holistic Wellbeing sponsored workshop on school-based mental health among 19 faculty and staff from 7 higher education institutions. Participants came from Sanata Dharma, The Beijing Center for Chinese Studies, Sophia University, Ateneo de Manila University, Ateneo de Davao University, Ateneo de Naga University and Ateneo de Zamboanga University.

The 3-day workshop was hosted by Fr. Roberto Yap, President of the Ateneo de Manila University for the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities in Asia Pacific. The Ateneo Bulatao Center for Psychological Services facilitated the 3-day workshop that featured topics such as mental health literacy, screening, mental health first aid, and facilitating a resilience intervention.

Participants appreciated the simulations and group approach taken. As Catherine from the Beijing Center shared, “I liked how our group is welcoming, patient and always listen to me without judgement. And I genuinely feel like I have been heard and validated, which does not happen with me everyday.” Ana from Ateneo de Davao shared that she plans to “incorporate the structure/ theoretical grounding of the program to our own university’s MH/guidance programs.” Fr Joel Liwanag of Ateneo de Zamboanga was optimistic that “By sharing this with colleagues, we will have more mental health advocates joining us.”