Professor SM Haider Rizvi has recently taken on the role of Professor and Head of the Centre for Psychology and Behavioural Sciences (CPBS) at Shoolini University. With over two decades of experience in psychology, mental health and behavioural sciences in India, Prof Rizvi brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective to the centre. His distinguished career, marked by significant contributions to the field, promises to further elevate the standards of education and research at Shoolini University.
Here are excerpts from an interview:
Could you elaborate on your professional background before joining Shoolini University?
Before my appointment at Shoolini University, I accumulated over 22 years of professional experience, collaborating with various international organisations, universities, research institutions, and United Nations agencies. I have bridged the gap between academia and industry, holding key positions at organisations like Wipro and UNICEF. This extensive experience has given me a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the field of psychology.
How has your educational journey shaped your career? Was psychology always your goal?
I am originally from Uttar Pradesh and completed my undergraduate and postgraduate studies at Aligarh Muslim University. I then earned my PhD from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in Delhi and pursued a postdoctoral fellowship at Shepherd University in the UK. Psychology has always fascinated me, and I’m glad I chose this field early on. It has been a fulfilling journey.
In your opinion, what skills are crucial for a psychologist to possess?
A psychologist should be an exceptional listener and have loads of patience. It is essential to be empathetic, compassionate, resilient, and capable of functioning effectively under pressure. These attributes are fundamental in comprehending and managing human behaviour.
Given the growing awareness of mental health issues, what career opportunities are available in the field of psychology in India today?
Historically, psychology in India has seen less demand than in Western countries. However, the field has experienced a significant shift since the COVID-19 pandemic. There is a growing demand for mental health professionals, creating numerous opportunities for counsellors in schools, corporate settings, and recruitment agencies. The psychology landscape in India is rapidly evolving, with career prospects becoming as diverse and promising as those globally.
What are the main challenges that psychologists encounter today?
A key challenge is raising public awareness about the importance of psychology in everyday life. Psychologists deal with complex factors like thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, making it hard to communicate their value to the general public.
As the newly appointed Head of the CPBS, what is your vision for the department?
My vision is to address industry-relevant challenges, starting here at Shoolini University. Our department provides counselling support to students and addresses their psycho-social needs. We plan to organise events like World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10th, featuring activities such as street walks and theatrical performances to raise awareness about suicide prevention. I see our department taking an active role in the community, extending our impact beyond the campus. We aim to enhance our presence not just in Solan and Himachal Pradesh but across India. Our goal is to contribute through research and tackle real-world issues to make a meaningful difference. We also want to host international conferences to expand our reach and influence.
How have you found your time at Shoolini University so far?
Even though I haven’t been at Shoolini University for a full month yet, I am thoroughly enjoying my time here. I’m excited about what lies ahead and am confident that my journey at this esteemed institution will be both fulfilling and rewarding.
Niraj Sharma
