Panel Discussion
Organized by : CICS College of Teacher Education, Kozhikode
Date : 18th March 2025
Venue : K. P. Kesava Menon Hall, Rajaji Road, Kozhikode
Topic : Struggles of Adolescents : Conflicts and Challenges
CICS College of Teacher Education, Kozhikode, organized a panel discussion on the topic
Struggles of Adolescents : Conflicts and Challenges, on 18th March 2025 at K. P. Kesava
Menon Hall, Kozhikode. The program commenced at 10:00 a.m. and concluded at 12:30 p.m.
The session aimed to explore the various struggles, challenges, and consequences faced by adolescents in the present-day context, drawing attention to the urgent need for collective intervention and support.
The event began with the presidential address delivered by Dr. Shylaja C.V., Principal of CICS College of Teacher Education. The session was anchored by Dr. Shyija, Assistant Professor at the same institution. The panel discussion was effectively moderated by Dr. N. P. Hafiz Muhamad Retired Professor and former Head of the Department of Sociology, Farook College, Kozhikode, who ensured a smooth and engaging flow of ideas throughout the session. The thematic presentation was delivered by Mr. Basheer, Manager of CICS College of Teacher Education, who highlighted the critical role played by family and peer groups in shaping an adolescent’s personality. He discussed the mental conflicts adolescents often face and stressed the need for appropriate handling mechanisms.
The discussion was enriched by the contributions of distinguished panelists from various fields.
Prof. Dr. C.M. Bindhu, Head of the Department of Education, University of Calicut,
emphasized the necessity of creating an inclusive learning environment that fosters open
communication between students and educators. She stressed the importance of updating parenting styles, advocating for a balance between freedom, responsibility, and discipline. Furthermore, she underlined the need to enhance emotional intelligence and self-reliance among adolescents to help them face life’s challenges.
Adv. Nazeer Chaliyam, Former Acting Chairman of the Kerala State Child Rights
Commission, called for a comprehensive action plan to tackle the growing issues faced by
adolescents. He identified broken family systems as a significant reason behind the struggles of many children, emphasizing the importance of early care in character formation. He strongly opposed the use of corporal punishment in classrooms and highlighted how technological advancements, combined with the breakdown of traditional family structures, have led to a loss of value transmission. He concluded that the responsibility of raising well-adjusted adolescents lies not only with parents but also with the entire community.
Dr. Sisira C., Clinical Psychologist at the Government Mental Health Center, Kozhikode,
focused on the mental stress and emotional struggles faced by adolescents. She stressed the necessity of creating a safe and open environment where adolescents feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and concerns with their parents. Dr. Sisira also discussed the impact of unrealistic social media portrayals and emotional dysregulation on adolescents, calling for updated parenting approaches that support emotional well-being and character development.
Prof. Rakhi N., Head of the Department of Sociology at Guruvayoorappan College, elaborated on the concept of socialization and the interdependent relationship between individuals and society. She highlighted the widening social gap between adolescents and the community, arguing that children should not be placed at the center without proper preparation to face societal challenges. She further spoke about the identity crisis experienced by adolescents and the lack of effective communication with them. Prof. Rakhi advocated for creating dedicated space and time, along with deeper understanding, to prioritize the needs and concerns of adolescents.
The session also featured a compelling address by Mr. R.N. Baiju, Assistant Excise
Commissioner, Kozhikode, who presented alarming insights into the rising trend of drug abuse among adolescents. He discussed the increased use of synthetic drugs such as MDMA and the growing involvement of adolescents in illegal activities through the dark web, cryptocurrency, and bitcoin. Mr. Baiju expressed concern over the Excise Department’s struggle to cope with these modern challenges and stressed the importance of collective efforts from society to combat drug trafficking. He further mentioned that drugs are often sourced from cities like Bangalore, Goa, and Delhi, and highlighted the need for reducing their availability through coordinated action.
Dr. Shamil Bin Ummer P.K., Consultant Psychologist at Wellness Clinic, Calicut, pointed out
that dysfunctional family environments are a major factor leading adolescents toward harmful and destructive activities. He emphasized the need for stable and supportive family systems to ensure adolescents receive proper guidance and emotional support, thereby preventing such behavioral tendencies.
In addition to the expert panelists, student representatives including Ms. Haritha T.K. (M.Ed.
Student, University of Calicut), Ms. Dhanusree N., and Mr. Muhammed Dilbar (B.Ed.
Students, CICS College of Teacher Education) shared their perspectives and reflections, adding depth and relevance to the discussion.
The session concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. Matthew Joseph, Assistant
Professor at CICS College of Teacher Education. He summarized the key points discussed
during the session and expressed gratitude to all the distinguished panelists, participants, and the organizing committee for their invaluable contributions and active participation.
The panel discussion proved to be an insightful and enlightening experience, offering valuable perspectives on the multifaceted challenges faced by adolescents. It reinforced the collective responsibility of families, educational institutions, communities, and authorities to create a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment that empowers adolescents to navigate their formative years with confidence and resilience.