GNDU Inks Pact with Hospital to Enhance Clinical Training for Psychology Students
Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Bhatia Neuropsychiatric Hospital and De-Addiction Centre in Amritsar to offer clinical training and internship opportunities for students enrolled in its Bachelor in Psychology (BPsy) programme. This collaboration aims to strengthen mental health services by bridging academic learning with clinical practice.
The MoU was officially signed by Vice-Chancellor Prof Karamjeet Singh and Dr JPS Bhatia, Director of Bhatia Neuropsychiatric Hospital and De-Addiction Centre, during a ceremony held at the office of the Dean of Academic Affairs.
Under the terms of the agreement, BPsy students will receive practical and clinical training at the hospital under the supervision of qualified psychiatrists and psychologists. The partnership will provide hands-on experience in psychological assessment, counselling support, case observation, case formulation, psychoeducation, documentation, and other mental health services within a professional clinical environment.
The first cohort of BPsy students, covering the academic years 2026 to 2030, will undertake compulsory internships and practical training during the seventh and eighth semesters of the programme. The training will be provided free of charge and conducted according to a mutually agreed schedule between the university and the hospital.
Dean Academic Affairs Prof (Dr) Harvinder Singh Saini described the partnership as a significant step towards strengthening professional education in psychology and providing students with meaningful clinical exposure. He noted that such collaborations help bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world mental health practice, equipping students with the practical skills required in the profession.
Dr Rupan Dhillon, Head of the Department of Psychology, said the MoU would create valuable experiential learning opportunities and contribute to the development of competent future mental health professionals.
The agreement will remain in force for five years and is expected to promote academic excellence, professional development, and community engagement in the field of mental health.
Among those present at the signing ceremony were Registrar Prof KS Chahal, Dean Student Welfare Prof Satnam Singh Deol, Prof Vasudha Sambyal, Director of the Golden Jubilee Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and other university officials.
