Group Principal, Fairview International School and Provost, University College Fairview, Kuala Lumpur
Dr Vincent Chian is a distinguished educator with over 14 years of experience in international education. Serving as Principal of Fairview International School Malaysia and Provost of University College Fairview, he has been instrumental in integrating holistic development into academic settings, emphasising student well-being alongside scholastic achievement. Dr Chian's innovative initiatives, such as the award-winning Toolbox skill development program, underscore his commitment to preparing students for life's challenges beyond the classroom. A sought-after speaker, he has shared insights on educational technology and leadership at prominent conferences, including EduTech Asia and KSI Education Summits. His writings on purposeful education further reflect his dedication to fostering meaningful learning experiences.
Background
According to the World Health Organization,
• Globally, one in seven 10-19-year-olds experiences a mental disorder, accounting for 15% of the global burden of disease in this age group.
• Depression, anxiety and behavioural disorders are among the leading causes of illness and disability among adolescents.
• Suicide is the third leading cause of death among those aged 15–29 years old.
• The consequences of failing to address adolescent mental health conditions extend to adulthood, impairing both physical and mental health and limiting opportunities to lead fulfilling lives as adults
The situation is alarming which requires our immediate attention. Similar findings from research done by CUHK showed that 24.4 per cent of children and adolescents had experienced at least one mental health issue in 2022 in Hong Kong.
The strategies to deal with the phenomenon has been mainly on promotion and prevention, and early detection and treatment. The latest global trends in wellness education and learn how integrating emotional well-being into educational frameworks is transforming lives. Research shows that happiness is a key predictor of adult well-being, even more so than academic achievement.
The Panel
The approach to wellness education encompasses all dimensions of wellness—emotional, physical, social, spiritual, and mental health. By embedding these elements into the heart of educational environments, it is aimed to create supportive systems that benefit both students and educators. This holistic approach fosters growth mindsets and cultivates learning environments where everyone can thrive.