Student mental health and wellbeing plays a critical role in learning and success. Managing the demands of a polytechnic education while balancing work and personal life can be both rewarding and challenging. Recognizing this and the need for a proactive approach to supporting students, BCIT recently launched the Student Wellbeing Action Plan (‘Action Plan’) and formally adopted the Okanagan Charter: An International Charter for Health Promoting Universities and Colleges.
A commitment to student wellbeing
On March 4, BCIT President Dr. Jeff Zabudsky, Provost and Vice President of Academic Jennifer Figner, and Associate Vice President of Students Laura Vail, officially launched the BCIT Student Wellbeing Action Plan, reaffirming the Institute’s commitment to comprehensive student engagement and support.
As a key initiative under the BCIT Strategic Plan, the Action Plan outlines four guiding principles that drive both individual and campus-wide actions to enhance student wellbeing. These principles are supported by strategic initiatives and early wins for immediate impact:
- Establish a commitment to creating a culture that promotes wellbeing.
- Equip BCIT employees and students to create and maintain supportive environments for wellbeing.
- Enhance literacy, competencies, and understanding to support ourselves and others.
- Increase awareness and equitable access to services and supports.
The Action plan was guided by best practices and reflects input from students, faculty, and staff. The Student Wellbeing Advisory Committee, composed of academic, student, and service representatives, helped shape the plan using data from the Canadian Campus Wellbeing Survey, current state assessment interviews, and Wellbeing Solution Labs held across BCIT campuses.
Available supports and services for students
BCIT encourages students to reach out for support whenever they need it. Students can access free and confidential health and wellbeing supports, such as Accessibility Services, Counselling, Early Assist, Health Services, and Indigenous Initiatives. They can also build connections and find their community through Student Life Office events and Recreation Services.
To support new students in setting themselves up for success, BCIT provides a new student checklist to help them stay on track while navigating their academic and personal journey.
“I’m feeling excited and hopeful for the forward direction in improving the health of the campus community. It’s wellbeing in action,” said Chelsey Hartwig, Nursing faculty, BCIT School of Health Sciences.