North South University’s (NSU) Counseling and Wellbeing Center (CWC), in collaboration with Kaan Pete Roi (KPR), with support from NSSUCC, NSU YES, NSUEDC, and NSUSC, has hosted a workshop titled ‘Start the Conversation: Save a Life’ to observe International Suicide Prevention Day on 05 October 2026. The program covered several important aspects of suicide prevention, including suicide myths and facts, suicide risk factors, recognizing warning signs, referral and action planning, and appropriate ways to respond to individuals who may be at risk. 

The workshop was facilitated by Clinical Psychologist, Director of Strategy & Partnership, KPR, Ms. Rubina Jahan, and Head of Training and Outreach, KPR, Mr. Ashik Abdullah. The program started with a suicide prevention awareness documentary, followed by interactive sessions conducted by the facilitators. A role-play session provided participants with an opportunity to practice how to initiate supportive conversations and respond appropriately in potentially critical situations. 
Facilitators addressed suicide myths, such as that people who talk about suicide will never attempt suicide or that someone who has decided on suicide cannot be saved. Trainers discussed the warning signs, including sudden change in behavior, expressing self-harming thoughts, expressing death wishes, and getting distance from relationships, connection, and belongings. They explained how empathy and non-judgmentalness are the most important tools to support someone who has suicidal ideation. Often, people hearing about self-harming thoughts feel compelled to jump in and push a solution without understanding the proper context or the situation of the others. Equally important, connecting individuals with appropriate professional support can play an important role in suicide prevention.
Professor Nasar U Ahmed, Pro-Vice Chancellor of NSU, in his remarks as chief guest, emphasized the healing power of active listening, sharing a real-life example to demonstrate how simply listening to someone can provide meaningful support during moments of distress. He expressed great concern over students’ mental health and discussed the potential long-term consequences of untreated mental health concerns. He further encouraged participants to understand that sometimes our perception can intensify a problem and stressed the importance of taking a pause, practicing deep breathing, and engaging in simple grounding activities. 
The proctor of the university, Professor Abdul Khaleque, closed the program with a vote of thanks. He addressed the students as a vital part of our community and encouraged them to participate more in social causes. He also emphasized ethical practices while dealing with someone with mental health vulnerability.  The workshop concluded with crest-giving ceremonies honouring the facilitators and certificates to participants.