In view of the anxiety and apprehensions surrounding the ongoing pandemic situation and the impending third wave, a counseling series on the theme, “Hope in Times of COVID”, was organized for KIIT School of Commerce, on 24th August, 2021. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sucheta Priyabadini, Director, Student Counseling stated that the counseling series is being organized at the initiative of Prof. Achyuta Samanta, Founder, KIIT & KISS, who has constituted a committee to counsel the staff and other members in the situation arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to address the concerns of the participants on the clinical side, she had specially invited Dr. Lalita Patnaik, In-Charge, PG Council, KIMS.
Dr. Priyabadini spoke about the critical state of the pandemic and uncertainty about the advent of third wave and the need to stay safe and follow COVID appropriate protocols. She apprised the participants about the other committees constituted by the Founder for facilitating staff and their family members who get affected by COVID. She also mentioned the role of the Facility Monitoring Cell, formed to facilitate availability of the various facilities of KIIT, KIMS and KISS, among the employees and general public.
Dr. Lalita provided extremely useful inputs and guidance in dealing with the pandemic. She spoke on the nuances of the second wave of COVID-19 and uncertainty of the third wave along with the norms to be followed. She emphasized the importance of proper nutrition and maintaining appropriate levels of hygiene. She made a point on the availability of inexpensive sources of probiotic in water rice (pakhala). She patiently and comprehensively addressed the concerns of the participants.
Speaking at the session, Social Activist, Sadhana Mishra shared her experience of working with the lower sections of the society in these critical times. Prof. Rajalaxmi Panda emphasized the power of positive psychology and provided information about the COVID19 helplines and Govt. websites. Prof. Jayanta Parida, Director, School of Commerce appreciated the importance and relevance of counseling in these difficult times. Ms. Linkan Subudhi was also present at the session.
Prof.Anjali Prava Mishra, Faculty School of Commerce and others posed questions related to the increased stress levels caused due to continuous working in online mode. Prof Mohamed Khursid thanked everyone for the overwhelming session and also initiative of the Counseling Cell. Prof Kajal Parasar, Dy. Director, Community Engagement Cell thanked all the faculty members and students for attending the interactive session.