Department’s Student Counselling Unit hosted its “Reflection Night,” an engaging and thought-provoking event that aided students with valuable insights on building and maintaining healthy relationships. The session, titled “Relationship Insights and Straight Talk,” drew a large crowd, eager to hear from a youth pastor Pastor Augustine Penot, who is also a third-year law student.
Held at the university’s Main Lecture Theatre, the event aimed to foster open discussions on relationships, offering students guidance on how to navigate the complexities of both romantic and platonic relationships. Pastor Penot, a well-known counselor and spiritual leader, captivated the audience with his blend of practical advice, deep reflections, and engaging anecdotes drawn from his years of experience working with young people and couples.
Throughout the evening, Pastor Penot addressed a variety of topics, from effective communication and emotional intelligence to setting healthy boundaries and fostering mutual respect. He emphasized that the foundation of any successful relationship, whether romantic, friendship, or familial, lies in open communication and understanding.
“We need to listen as much as we speak, and understand as much as we seek to be understood,” Pastor Penot shared. He also touched on the importance of self-reflection, noting that healthy relationships begin with understanding one’s own emotions, needs, and values before expecting the same from others.
In the second part of the session, titled “Straight Talk,” Pastor Penot addressed some of the common challenges students face in relationships, including managing conflicts, dealing with breakups, and navigating the pressures of modern dating. The interactive segment encouraged students to ask candid questions, sparking an open dialogue about the realities of relationships in today’s fast-paced, digitally-driven world.
One of the most impactful moments of the evening came when Pastor Penot discussed the importance of self-worth and personal growth within relationships. “You must love yourself enough to walk away from anything that lowers your worth. Relationships are meant to build you up, not tear you down,” he advised.
The event concluded with a reflection session where students were encouraged to share their thoughts and personal experiences. Many expressed gratitude for the practical advice and support offered throughout the night.
“I really appreciated how honest and relatable Pastor Penot was,” said Christine Putumbu., a second-year psychology student. “His insights on communication and boundaries have really changed the way I view my relationships.”
The success of Reflection Night emphasized the importance of providing students with spaces to explore personal growth and emotional well-being. The Student Counselling Unit has already announced plans to continue addressing various aspects of student life, from mental health to academic stress. The event not only provided students with valuable relationship insights but also reminded them that the journey to personal and relational growth begins with reflection and honest conversations.
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