Event on June 25 “Music and Mental Health: Empowering Inclusion for Students with Special Needs in Higher Education” Inclumusic Project
The seminar “Music and Mental Health: Empowering Inclusion for Students with Special Needs in Higher Education” was successfully held on June 25, 2025, at the Omega Conference Room of European University Cyprus. The event, coordinated by Maria Prodromou, Assistant Professor of Nursing and Coordinator of the MSc in Mental Health Nursing program, brought together experts, educators, musicians, and organizations dedicated to promoting inclusion, resilience, and well-being through music.
The event featured the participation of the AERC, the Cyprus Autism Association, mental health professionals, and musicians from the Stelios Ioannou Foundation for People with Special Needs, as well as musicians from European University Cyprus, the University of Nicosia, and specialists in inclusive and special education, along with representatives from the School for the Deaf and the School for the Blind of Cyprus.
The seminar included outstanding presentations on mental health and the role of music in promoting psychological well-being and empowerment among individuals and students with special educational needs.
The seminar featured distinguished speakers and presentations, including:
- Ellen Pontikis, Founder & President, Voice for Autism – “Rocking Autism”
- Alfonso Guerra, Association Européenne des Conservatoires (AEC) – “IncludMusic and the AEC’s Strategies for a More Inclusive Higher Music Education”
- Maria Prodromou, European University Cyprus – “The IncludMusic Educational Program: Promoting Inclusion and Mental Resilience through Music”
- Dr. Yiannis Miralis, European University Cyprus – “Make and Practice Music: Exploring the Multiple Benefits of Musical Engagement for Individuals and Society”
- Natalie Chrysochou, Undergraduate Student, EUC Nursing Program – “Using Colour Therapy to Support Mental Well-being”
- Alex Karpis, Director, Voice for Autism Band – “The Effect of Music on the Autism Community”
- Elena Stavrinidou, Christos Stelios Ioannou Foundation – “The Role of Music at the Christos Stelios Ioannou Foundation”
The event concluded with an inspiring concert by individuals with special educational needs from the Symphonic Band of Strovolos Municipality–EUC and AL’s Singers Chorus, celebrating inclusion through music.
The seminar emphasized the vital role of music in enhancing mental health, fostering inclusion in higher education, and empowering students with special educational needs. Participants had the opportunity to exchange ideas and discuss future collaborations between mental health professionals, educators, and artistic communities.
Maria Prodromou, EUC
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