Photo has been used for illustrative purposes.

Imran Mojib, Special Correspondent

With one in five children suffering from a diagnosable mental, emotional or behavioural disorder and many more are being diagnosed with major depression and anxiety, suicide rate is growing and with many young people are seeking therapy. This is high time, parents should focus on children’s overall wellbeing, not just academic performance.

A panel of eminent academicians and counsellors made this observation during a discussion titled “Theory of Change,” which was organised by the Consulate General of India in Dubai in association with Corvuss American Academy for parents, children and educators.

Head of Academy at Corvuss American Academy Randy Stevenson, Director of Counselling point Rema Menon, CEO of Colosseum Sports Kunal Maria, CEO of White Water Prem Ramachandran participated in the discussion, which was moderated by founder of Urban Sketchers Manupriam Seth.

The panelists stressed on the importance of nurturing the innate capabilities and capacities of the younger generation to have a successful and mindful future.

The panel also focused on changing paradigms of sports and education, which can help students lay a foundation for future success.

Consul General of India Vipul said that organising “Theories of Change” is a positive step towards enlightening parents on educational innovation and how to help students achieve their full potential.

He said, “There are lots of things happening in the field of education. There are new developments that should be taken into account when we move forward as to how children get their realistic trans in the field of employment, in the field of entrepreneurship and in general life. There is a new concept of integrating sports in academic, something that is quite important in today’s life. We all have to be fit and healthy. At the same time, there are lots of students who need time, expertise and training for their specific needs, for which the education system needs to evolve further.”