As Antonine University (UA) prepares to return to on-campus teaching, the Vice Rector for Integral Human Development, Fr. Jean Al Alam, presented an important awareness session for our faculty members on navigating the classroom amid ongoing conflicts. Conducted via Microsoft Teams on October 30, the session aimed to equip instructors with essential strategies for managing challenging situations, ensuring both their well-being and that of their students.

The session opened with an overview of the current situation, highlighting the war’s impact on the mental health of both instructors and students. It addressed the concept of “war trauma” and its broader consequences on overall well-being. Following this introduction, the focus shifted to mental preparation for instructors, offering techniques for self-reflection and grounding to help manage personal stress before class delivery. Daily practices such as physical activity and prayer were discussed as effective ways to foster resilience.

A significant portion of the session was dedicated to recognizing and addressing student needs. Instructors learned how to create a compassionate classroom environment where students feel safe to express their emotions. Key strategies included acknowledging the situation with sensitivity, reassuring students that their well-being is a top priority, facilitating discussions about the impact of conflict on their lives, and emphasizing the importance of empathy and active listening.

Fr. Al Alam also covered strategies for managing anxiety and panic attacks. Instructors were guided on how to identify signs of anxiety or panic in students and respond effectively. Practical breathing exercises and immediate support methods were shared to help students in distress.

Additionally, an overview of the evacuation plan was presented to ensure safety during emergencies. Faculty members were encouraged to foster open dialogues about mental health, reinforcing the importance of well-being during times of crisis.

This session underscored the University’s commitment to creating a supportive educational environment, especially as faculty and students navigate the complexities of learning during turbulent times. Faculty members actively participated, recognizing that their engagement could significantly enhance the classroom atmosphere and support student welfare.