IBSUniversity hosted its first Student Wellbeing & Resilience Summit 2026 on Friday, 7th August 2026, bringing together students from universities and TVET institutions in Port Moresby for a day focused on mental health, wellbeing, resilience and student support.

Held under the theme “Stronger Minds, Brighter Futures: Promoting Mental Health & Wellbeing for PNG University Students,” the summit provided an engaging platform for students to learn, connect, reflect and participate in conversations around their mental and emotional wellbeing.

The participation of students from different institutions created an opportunity for young people to connect beyond their individual campuses and recognise the importance of collective support in promoting student wellbeing.

The summit focused on the importance of building healthy minds alongside academic and professional development.

Key areas explored throughout the programme included mental health awareness, healthy living, stress and academic pressure management, resilience building and peer support. Students were also encouraged to reflect on their personal wellbeing and identify ways they could support themselves and their peers.

The programme featured expert presentations and interactive sessions designed to encourage open participation and practical learning.

Mental Health Awareness & Healthy Living

The first major session was led by Dr Michael Mai (Assistant Director Clinical Directorate of Social Change and Mental Health Services), who addressed mental health and wellbeing, the importance of a healthy lifestyle and the role of support systems and peer care. The session also provided an opportunity for students to engage through questions and discussion with Mr. Philip So’on (First Assistant Secretary Guidance and Counselling Division– Department of Education – Papua New Guinea), and Dr. Kura David-Ravu (Psychiatrist– Port Moresby General Hospital),

Managing Stress & Academic Pressure

Students then explored practical approaches to managing the pressures associated with student life. Ms Tahina Booth, Director of the Grass Skirt Project, facilitated a session covering coping with examinations and deadlines, time management, relaxation and mindfulness practices.

Building Resilience & Emotional Strength

The final major session focused on resilience and emotional strength. Mr Joseph Kaile spoke about overcoming setbacks and failure in student life, culturally grounded resilience strategies in Papua New Guinea and the importance of learning from success stories.

Beyond the presentations, the summit incorporated a range of activities designed to keep students engaged.

The programme included an opening icebreaker, interactive activities, booth visits and networking, as well as a rapid-fire panel round where students could put quick questions to the panel.
The day concluded with an open question-and-answer session and a “My Wellbeing Commitment” Student Reflection Wall, giving students an opportunity to reflect on the discussions and make personal commitments towards their wellbeing.

The success of the inaugural Student Wellbeing & Resilience Summit highlights the importance of creating spaces where students can openly engage in conversations about wellbeing.

For students navigating academic demands, personal challenges, relationships, career expectations and the transition into professional life, having access to supportive communities and positive coping strategies can make an important difference.

IBSUniversity is proud to have brought students and institutions together for this important conversation and looks forward to continuing to promote environments where students can grow not only academically, but also personally and emotionally.

Stronger minds contribute to brighter futures — and together, we can help build a healthier, more resilient generation of PNG students.