IMU Psychology Day 2025: Celebrating Diversity, Innovation, and the Future of Psychology

The IMU LIT campus was a hub of intellectual exchange on August 5 and 6 as the Department of Psychology hosted its much-anticipated annual Psychology Day 2025. Held under the inspiring theme, “Many Minds, One World: Embracing Diversity in Psychology,” the two-day event brought together students, faculty, and industry professionals for a vibrant celebration of the discipline’s diversity and impact.

The event began with an official launch graced by Prof Sharil Lim Bin Abdullah, Dean of IMU, and Prof Dr Ian Martin Symonds, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academic Affairs, who commended the dedication of students and faculty in curating such an impactful programme. Their words set the tone for an event that seamlessly blended academic excellence, professional insights, and engaging activities.

Among the highlights were the Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect (SCAN) Talks, which delved into critical areas of psychology, including pediatric psychiatry services by Prof Dr Faizruz and a powerful session on “Obstetric and Gynecological Intervention for Children with Sexual Abuse and Neglect.” These sessions underscored the essential role of psychology in addressing sensitive clinical contexts. 

Academic rigor was further showcased in the Psychology Undergraduate Research Symposium, where final-year students presented their capstone projects, impressing audiences with the quality of their work.

Complementing this was the lively 3-Minute Pitch Competition, where students creatively condensed big ideas into concise, engaging presentations that wowed both judges and peers. The atmosphere extended beyond lecture halls, with interactive booths buzzing with activity throughout the event. Managed by postgraduate students from the Master of Clinical Psychology (MCP) and Master of Counselling (MOC) programmes, the booths provided attendees with interactive learning opportunities, insights into postgraduate pathways, and a chance to experience psychology in practice.

Equally enriching were the thought-provoking talks that offered practical perspectives on psychology’s real-world applications. Dr Lee Eng Chiat (KB.PA) delivered an impactful session titled “Restoring Lives: Counselling and Rehabilitation in Detained Populations,” which shed light on the challenges and ethical considerations of working with incarcerated individuals.

The programme concluded with “In Sync: Exploring Career Fit Through Psychology,” led by senior lecturers Dr Joshua Ng and Dr Estee Yap, together with Programme Director for the Psychology Programme, Ms Brenda Shalini, who offered valuable career guidance and encouraged students to align their strengths with meaningful professional pathways.

Psychology Day 2025 was more than just an event, it was a celebration of diversity, innovation, and community. By uniting many voices and perspectives under one theme, it succeeded in enriching the academic journey of students while strengthening the network of psychology professionals at IMU.

Written by Thurgga Ramas Kumar