In line with the mandates of Republic Act No. 11650, also known as the Instituting a Policy of Inclusion and Services for Learners with Disabilities in Support of Inclusive Education Act, and the University’s program IGNITE: Inspiring Growth and Nurturing Innovation for Teaching Excellence, the School of International Hospitality and Tourism Management (SIHTM) conducted its in-service training on August 6, 2025, at Café Fernando, University of Baguio. In preparation for the upcoming academic year, the session focused on fostering empathy, inclusion, and mental health awareness within the classroom—topics that are both timely and relevant to the current concerns observed within the academic community.
The faculty training was facilitated by Ms. Shirley Grace Dicman, a counselor, wellness coach, trainer, psychotherapist, and registered nurse from PowerVision EAP Inc. Drawing from her extensive experience and the shared insights of the faculty, Ms. Dicman shed light on common challenges encountered in the school environment. She further guided the faculty on appropriate levels of response and intervention through real-life examples, emphasizing the importance of linking students to accessible mental health services as part of holistic support. The session fostered a deeper understanding of the faculty’s role in promoting mental health and overall student well-being.
Ms. Dicman emphasized that the first step toward creating a supportive and inclusive academic environment is developing a comprehensive understanding of mental health awareness. The second step is identifying appropriate approaches based on the situation, and the final step is applying these strategies effectively. Faculty members actively engaged in the discussion, sharing classroom experiences and exploring practical strategies to support student wellness and resilience.
She concluded her talk with an adage that also served as a challenge to the faculty: “Students don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” The message underscored the importance of compassion in education and reaffirmed SIHTM’s commitment to holistic student development.
This initiative reflects SIHTM’s ongoing dedication to cultivating a safe and supportive academic environment, where empathy, inclusion, and mental health support are integral to student success.
