GNDU Partners with Amritsar Mental Health Centre to Boost Clinical Training for Psychology Students

by Dr. Jasneet Bedi

AI Generated Summary

  • The memorandum of understanding (MoU) was formally signed by GNDU Vice-Chancellor Prof Karamjeet Singh and Dr JPS Bhatia, Director of the hospital, during a function held at the office of the Dean of Academic Affairs.
  • Echoing similar views, Dr Rupan Dhillon, Head of the Department of Psychology, said the collaboration would enrich the learning experience of students and contribute to the development of well-trained mental health professionals equipped to meet emerging societal needs.
  • In a move aimed at enhancing practical learning opportunities in the field of psychology, Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) has entered into a collaborative agreement with Bhatia Neuropsychiatric Hospital and De-Addiction Centre, Amritsar.

In a move aimed at enhancing practical learning opportunities in the field of psychology, Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) has entered into a collaborative agreement with Bhatia Neuropsychiatric Hospital and De-Addiction Centre, Amritsar. The partnership is expected to provide psychology students with valuable clinical exposure while strengthening ties between academia and mental healthcare services.

The memorandum of understanding (MoU) was formally signed by GNDU Vice-Chancellor Prof Karamjeet Singh and Dr JPS Bhatia, Director of the hospital, during a function held at the office of the Dean of Academic Affairs.

Under the collaboration, students enrolled in GNDU’s Bachelor in Psychology (BPsy) programme will undergo structured clinical training and internships at the hospital. Working under the guidance of experienced psychiatrists and psychologists, students will gain hands-on experience in areas such as psychological assessments, counselling assistance, case observation, psychoeducation, clinical documentation and case formulation.

The initiative will particularly benefit the first batch of BPsy students admitted for the 2026–2030 academic session. As part of the programme requirements, students will complete mandatory internships and practical training during their seventh and eighth semesters. The hospital will provide this training without any financial charge, following schedules jointly developed by the two institutions.

Dean Academic Affairs Prof (Dr) Harvinder Singh Saini described the agreement as an important step towards improving professional education in psychology. He noted that direct exposure to clinical settings enables students to translate theoretical knowledge into practical skills, preparing them more effectively for careers in mental health services.

Echoing similar views, Dr Rupan Dhillon, Head of the Department of Psychology, said the collaboration would enrich the learning experience of students and contribute to the development of well-trained mental health professionals equipped to meet emerging societal needs.

The MoU will remain effective for five years and is expected to support academic advancement, professional skill development and community-oriented mental health initiatives.

Several university officials attended the signing ceremony, including Registrar Prof KS Chahal, Dean Student Welfare Prof Satnam Singh Deol, Prof Vasudha Sambyal, Director of the Golden Jubilee Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, along with other members of the university administration.

Dr. Jasneet Bedi

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