Second Annual Positive Psychology Colloquium at UCT GSB

The second annual Positive Psychology Colloquium will take place at the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Graduate School of Business (GSB) on Tuesday, 5 September, a collaboration between the Department of Student Affairs (DSA) and the Hasso Plattner School of Design Thinking (d-school) Afrika.

The colloquium will explore the synergy between positive psychology and flourishing higher education and student development. It has been endorsed by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Transformation, Student Affairs and Social Responsiveness Professor Elelwani Ramugondo, and is supported by UCT’s Residence Academic Development Committee.

This partnership introduces an innovative, multi-faculty approach and is a fusion of design thinking and positive psychology. The initiative has been funded by the Residence Academic Development Committee. Aimed at students and staff, its goal is to build synergies between faculties, academic departments, and student development, especially in residences.

The colloquium will explore a variety of topics, including the psychology of gratitude and harnessing Character Strengths in personal development.

“Attendees will embark on an empowering journey, exploring imaginative applications of positive psychology.”

Presenters will include Dr Anita Campbell, a senior lecturer in the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics; the DSA’s Sean Abrahams, Residence Life specialist for Learning and Innovation; Associate Professor Janice McMillan of the Centre for Innovation in Learning and Teaching (CILT); and Ettienne Mostert, business and partnership manager at the d-school.

“Attendees will embark on an empowering journey, exploring imaginative applications of positive psychology to address real-world societal challenges igniting novel perspectives and innovative solutions,” said Mostert.

Abrahams added, “This year, we are delighted to welcome back several students who have actively engaged in previous positive psychology interventions. They return as co-facilitators, ready to share their valuable insights and first-hand experiences regarding the significant benefits they’ve gained from these interventions.”

In-person spaces have been filled. However, those keen to attend can register to join virtually.