Professional counselling, peer-counsellor training and a university mental health task force support students, lecturers and education staff, including those who may face barriers to participation in university life.
Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES) provides counselling and peer support through services for students, lecturers and education staff. These initiatives support an inclusive university environment by offering access to psychological assistance, peer support and referral, including for members of the university community who may experience exclusion or vulnerability.
UNNES provides student support through the Center for Language Services, Educational Training, Career Development, Counseling Guidance, and Disability Services (PLBPPKBKD), operating under the Institute for Educational and Professional Development (LPPP). Within this center, dedicated disability services provide counseling and academic, social, and cultural assistance for students with disabilities and/or special needs. These services also promote awareness of disability rights and establish partnerships to support students’ competency development and connections with prospective employers.
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Developing Peer Support for Students
On 12 April 2025, the Department of Sexual Violence Assistance and Mental Health of BEM FMIPA UNNES organised Peer Counselor Training to prepare students to support peers experiencing mental health difficulties or sexual violence. The training covered empathetic communication, appropriate initial responses, and referral to qualified support services. It formed part of the faculty’s student-led peer mentoring and support activities.
The training was accompanied by prevention and awareness activities. Together, these initiatives strengthened the role of student peers in recognising concerns and supporting fellow students in seeking assistance.
Peer support complements professional counselling by providing an additional point of contact within the student community. This approach is relevant to students who may find it difficult to seek help directly or who face barriers to accessing support.
Strengthening Institutional Counselling and Referral
UNNES reinforced its support framework through the establishment of the Mental Health Service Task Force under Rector’s Decree No. T/116/UN37/HK.02/2025. The task force strengthens counselling, support and referral within the university.
The institutional framework connects peer-based initiatives with professional assistance, supporting access to appropriate help when students or employees require further support.
Providing Professional Support for Lecturers and Staff
UNNES also provides lecturers and education staff with access to confidential professional psychological counselling through Lab BK. Extending counselling beyond the student population recognises the support needs of employees across academic and administrative roles.
Based Rector Regulation No. 117 of 2024 on Mental Health Services UNNES provides lecturers and education staff with access to confidential professional psychological counselling through Lab BK. Extending counselling beyond the student population recognises the support needs of employees across academic and administrative roles.
Building Awareness of Mental Health and Inclusion
Through counselling services, peer-counsellor training, employee psychological support and institutional referral arrangements, UNNES provides multiple channels of assistance for its students and employees. These programmes contribute to a more supportive environment for university members with different backgrounds and support needs.
