Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) concluded UTB Mental Health Week 2026 with “Paws & Breathe”, a community-centred initiative that highlighted the interconnectedness of mental well-being, compassion, and social responsibility.
Held at the Faculty of Engineering Building (FEB), the closing event brought together students, staff, and members of the public to explore the positive impact of human-animal interactions on emotional well-being while raising awareness of animal welfare and community care. The programme reflected UTB’s commitment to holistic student development by fostering empathy, resilience, and meaningful connections beyond the classroom.
Organised as part of the final day of UTB Mental Health Week 2026, “Paws & Breathe” provided participants with opportunities to engage with representatives from animal welfare and rescue organisations while learning about the important role animals can play in supporting emotional health and overall well-being.
A key attraction of the event was the participation of PMBF’s Universal Zoo, which showcased a variety of animals and provided educational insights into animal care, conservation, and responsible ownership. Participants also visited interactive booth exhibitions by PawsUp, which promoted awareness of animal welfare initiatives and encouraged greater community involvement in supporting animal-related causes.
Throughout the day, participants took part in six interactive activity booths designed to encourage reflection, mindfulness, and positive coping strategies. Activities such as The Wall of Pets, The Coping Cat, Pawsitive Progress, The Aquarium of Calm, The Owl’s Wise Words, and The Koala of Comfort provided engaging avenues for participants to share experiences, express gratitude, reflect on their personal growth, and explore healthy coping mechanisms in a supportive environment.
The event also highlighted how interactions with animals can contribute positively to mental health by reducing stress, encouraging social connections, and fostering a sense of comfort and companionship. Through educational exhibits and interactive experiences, participants gained a deeper appreciation of the relationship between animal welfare, community well-being, and personal resilience.
As the concluding event of UTB Mental Health Week 2026, “Paws & Breathe” served as a meaningful platform for promoting compassion, inclusivity, and community engagement, values that are central to UTB’s vision of developing graduates who are not only academically and professionally competent but also socially responsible and emotionally resilient.
The successful conclusion of the week-long programme underscored UTB’s commitment to creating a supportive university environment that prioritises mental well-being, personal growth, and lifelong learning. Through a diverse range of talks, workshops, wellness activities, creative performances, health initiatives, and community engagement programmes, UTB Mental Health Week 2026 empowered participants to embrace healthier lifestyles, strengthen resilience, and cultivate meaningful connections within the wider community.
The initiative further reinforced the University’s holistic educational philosophy, demonstrating that the development of future-ready graduates extends beyond academic achievement to include emotional intelligence, empathy, well-being, and a commitment to contributing positively to society.
