UII Launches AI-Based Counseling Service
SLEMAN—The rise in mental health issues among the younger generation, particularly university students, is a matter that cannot be ignored. These challenges can impact every aspect of young people’s lives.
In response, Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII), through its Directorate of Student Development (DPK), launched an AI-based counseling service at the Prof. Dr. Sardjito General Lecture Building of UII’s Main Campus on Saturday, October 12, 2024.
Coinciding with World Mental Health Day, the AI-based counseling service was symbolically launched by Arif Fajar Wibisono, S.E., M.Sc., the Director of DPK UII. The event continued with a seminar themed “Mind Matters: Prioritizing Mental Health in Everyday Life.” The winners of the World Mental Health Day Digital Campaign Competition were also announced during the event.
Dr. Drs. Rohidin, S.H., M.Ag., UII’s Vice Rector for Student, Religion, and Alumni Affairs, expressed appreciation for the ongoing commitment and care shown by DPK UII toward students’ mental health. Rohidin shared his concerns about the mental health issues facing students, which can leave them vulnerable. He noted that this issue was a top priority frequently discussed in the Yogyakarta Forum for Higher Education Leaders in Student Affairs (Forpimawa).
“Mental health is at the top of the priority list. Students with mental health challenges are, by default, vulnerable. When they’re vulnerable, if left unsupported, they may resort to risky solutions that worsen their mental health,” said the Chair of Yogyakarta Forpimawa.
Rohidin hopes that this AI-based counseling service will reach more students experiencing mild mental health issues and provide a new avenue for early prevention by faster and more accessible support.
In his remarks, Arif Fajar Wibisono stated that the service has been designed to effectively support UII students.
“This is our [DPK’s] first step at UII to support our students through our best services. This newly-launched service aims to be a companion for you in your journey to achieving your dreams at UII,” said the DPK UII Director.
Latifatul Laili, S.Psi., M.Psi., Psikolog., Head of the Division of Student Personality Development & Welfare of DPK UII, mentioned that UII students have access to three counseling services, namely professional counseling with licensed psychologists, peer counseling managed by PIK-M Aushaf UII as peer counselors who also promote mental health, and AI-based counseling to assist with mild issues and mental health prevention.
According to Latifatul Laili, the AI-based counseling service was developed in response to the high demand for counseling among students. In 2023, 810 students received counseling, and within the first ten months of 2024, 502 students have already received this service.
“With this awareness, we want to respond more quickly, especially for students with mild issues that AI can help with. Of course, AI cannot replace psychologists,” explained the Psychology Study Program lecturer.
The student counseling system at UII is integrated with professional counseling services provided by psychologists, peer counseling by PIK-M Aushaf UII, faculty members, staff, security personnel, and in collaboration with the Sleman Health Agency. This service is available to students at all academic levels, both in regular and international programs. Each counseling session lasts 90 minutes, with up to five sessions accessible per student.
“Our hope is that this system will help students develop optimally into resilient individuals, contribute positively to their communities, and maintain a productive daily life,” added Latifatul Laili.
