7 Proven Strategies for Staff to Build a Positive Campus Culture and Enhance Student Well-being

Campus Care Culture

🌱 Why Campus Culture Matters

A positive campus culture encourages inclusivity, trust, and respect between all members of the institution. Students who feel safe, valued, and heard are more likely to:

• Perform better academically,

• Engage in campus activities, and

• Seek help when they are struggling.

The Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia (MOHE) has recognised the importance of mental well-being and encourages institutions to embed well-being strategies across all levels of education. (MOHE Official Website)

🧑‍🏫 The Role of Staff in Student Well-being

While counselling centres and peer groups are vital, academic and support staff are often the first line of contact for students. Here’s how staff can play an active role in promoting well-being:

1. Be Approachable and Observant

Students may hesitate to reach out for help, especially if they fear judgement. By maintaining open body language, using student-friendly tone, and being genuinely present, staff can create safe spaces for students to speak up.

Tip: Smile, learn student names, and use affirming language such as “I hear you” or “I understand this may be hard.”

2. Encourage Open Communication

Staff can initiate simple conversations during consultations or before class. Asking, “How are things going this week?” can make a big difference. These small check-ins allow students to feel noticed and cared for.

Suggested Reading: Active Listening in Higher Education

3. Promote Inclusivity and Respect

Staff members are role models. Promoting inclusive language, acknowledging diverse backgrounds, and being culturally sensitive contributes to a safer learning environment for all students.

This includes respecting students from various ethnic, religious, and linguistic backgrounds.

4.Use AI to Personalise Student Engagement

AI-powered platforms can analyse student participation and learning patterns to  identify students who may need extra support. This allows early intervention and personalised encouragement, which strengthens trust and belonging.

5. Collaborate With Student Services

Staff can partner with campus units like the Student Affairs Department, career advisors, or peer mentoring groups to refer students to proper support systems. Knowing when and where to refer a student is a mark of responsible care.

Example Resource: Befrienders Malaysia – Mental Health Helpline

🌸 Creating a Culture of Care: Institutional Examples

Many universities in Asia have introduced formal and informal initiatives to foster campus wellness:

• Wellness Weeks featuring free health screenings and workshops.

• Mindfulness Clubs initiated by staff and students.

• Zero Bullying Policies visibly promoted by faculty and staff.

You can visit Taylor’s University’s Well-being Hub for examples of structured well-being efforts in Malaysia.

🧭 Practical Steps for Staff

1. Use simple English and local greetings.
   Add friendly phrases like “sudah makan?” or “ok kah?” to build trust.

2. Create a welcoming class environment.
   Greet students by name and check in on their well-being.

3. Support cultural celebrations.
   Join student events like Gawai, Chinese New Year, or Hari Raya to show encouragement.

4. Share mental health info on WhatsApp or Telegram.
   Post short tips, positive quotes, or links to local support services like Befrienders Kuching.

5. Organise casual student-staff chats.
   Work with the counselling unit to host “Coffee & Chat” or short well-being talks.

6. Encourage peer support.
   Promote group activities or buddy systems for new students.

7. Provide anonymous feedback options.
   Use Google Forms with QR codes to let students share concerns safely.

✨Final Thought

Creating a positive campus culture does not require large budgets or national initiatives alone. It begins with small acts of care by individuals, especially those in positions of trust like educators and staff. A smile, a kind word, or a listening ear can shape a student’s experience—and even change a life.

“Every Greeting Counts”

Let us be the reason a student feels welcome and supported on campus, not just educated.

Further info on related article: https://blog.fame.edu.my/mental-health-at-work-9-simple-ways-to-stay-balanced-and-productive/