USP Expands Clinical Psychology Training Through Partnership with Violence Against Women Center

Ms. Muneeza Butt, Manager of the Violence Against Women Center (VAWC) and District Women Protection Officer in Multan, visited the University of Southern Punjab, where the two institutions formalized a partnership to strengthen practical training in mental health and victim support. During the visit, Ms. Butt and Dr. Syed Farhan Gillani signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will offer students in the University's Department of Clinical Psychology internship opportunities at the VAWC. Through the partnership, students will gain hands-on experience in psychological counseling, trauma-informed care, victim support services, and community-based protection initiatives, bridging academic learning and real-world professional practice.

During her visit, Ms. Butt met with the Rector, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar. She observed that he consistently referred to female students and employees not merely as "girls" or even "students," but as the "daughters" and "daughters of the university." She described this word choice as reflecting a culture of care, dignity, and shared responsibility. The observation resonated beyond language, underscoring the university's broader commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and empowering environment for young women pursuing higher education.

The MOU signing ceremony was attended by Deans, Directors, faculty members, and senior administrators of the University, underscoring institutional support for strengthening partnerships that advance women's protection, mental health services, and professional education.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ms. Muneeza Butt praised the University of Southern Punjab for fostering an environment where respect and responsibility are evident not only in institutional policies but also in everyday interactions. She added that the partnership with the University would equip future clinical psychologists with meaningful field experience and strengthen collaborative efforts to promote the protection of women, mental health, and community well-being.

Speaking at the ceremony, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar reaffirmed the University's commitment to producing graduates who combine professional competence with compassion and social responsibility. He invited Ms. Muneeza Butt and her team to maintain ongoing engagement with the University's students and faculty through seminars, awareness campaigns, training sessions, and collaborative initiatives focused on women's rights, psychological well-being, and violence prevention.

Ms. Butt welcomed the invitation, expressing optimism that sustained collaboration between academic institutions and public protection services can foster greater awareness, empathy, and resilience among future professionals.