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As part of its efforts to connect psychological learning with real-world issues, the School of Psychology (SoP) at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), in collaboration with Shelter Home for Children, organised a guest lecture titled “Child Abuse and Safeguarding Practices: Understanding, Prevention, and Intervention,” featuring Mr Jeshurun Vincent, Coordinator of Shelter Home for Children. 

Led by Mr Mohamad Hilmi Mhd Najri (Lecturer, SoP at APU), the guest lecture enabled Psychology students to gain insights into child protection and safeguarding practices through the experiences of a professional working directly with vulnerable children and youth. 

Mr Jeshurun shared practical perspectives on the realities faced by children experiencing abuse and neglect, while introducing students to the responsibilities involved in recognising risks, responding appropriately, and supporting children in vulnerable situations. 

Understanding the Realities of Child Abuse

The session opened with Mr Jeshurun guiding students through the different forms of child abuse and the potential long-term impact of adverse childhood experiences on children’s cognitive, emotional, social, and behavioural development. 

Drawing on real-world examples and guided discussions, students explored how abuse and neglect can influence children throughout different stages of development, while examining the importance of timely support and appropriate intervention. 

The discussion further explored common misconceptions surrounding child abuse; encouraging students to view child welfare issues with greater awareness, sensitivity, and empathy. 

Applying Safeguarding Principles through Practical Activities

A key feature of the session was the use of case study discussions and interactive reflections, which allowed students to consider how safeguarding principles could be applied to realistic situations. 

Through these activities, students explored the importance of early intervention, ethical responsibility, appropriate reporting procedures, and collaboration when responding to concerns involving vulnerable children. 

The session also highlighted the role of early intervention in supporting children before difficulties develop into more complex behavioural and psychological challenges; encouraging students to consider the responsibilities they may carry as future helping professionals and advocates for child well-being. 

Student Perspectives 

A few perspective from students:

1. Lim Chun Shin: “The guest lecture was a meaningful learning experience for me, as i learned that helping children recover from abuse can be a difficult and lengthy process due to the deep emotional and psychological trauma many of them have experienced.”
2. Aaraaf Aajwaad Rusd: “The guest lecture was a great learning experience in general, from getting to know the guest lecturer, all the way to developing an awareness of the various intricacies surrounding child abuse.”
    

Encouraging Students to Advocate for Child Protection 

Overall, the guest lecture provided students with a broader understanding of child abuse, safeguarding, and the importance of early intervention, while connecting psychological concepts with the realities of child welfare and protection. 

Beyond the guest lecture, the initiative also extends into student-led awareness efforts, with students set to establish an awareness booth in November focusing on child abuse prevention, safeguarding practices, and the importance of protecting vulnerable children. 

Through these learning and advocacy opportunities, students are encouraged to look beyond theoretical understanding and consider how psychological knowledge can contribute to safer and more supportive environments for children.