Student welfare top priority for Massey University after Christchurch tragedy

Massey University and its student associations are doing everything they can to support students affected by the Christchurch mosque shootings.

The university is encouraging students to make the most of its campus based health and counselling services, whilst the student presidents are also promoting different services to help students feel safe and supported.

“We do have an incredible advocate on our team who can help, we have health and counselling services on campus, we have security on site too if you feel even a little bit uncomfortable. There’s also support staff in our halls.” said MAWSA student president Jamie-Lee Bracken.

“We realise that our Muslim friends may wish to seek support within their own community. A registered counsellor Mohammed Hassan has offered to provide support, please contact him on 021545938 for more information.”

MUSA student president Michael Salmon was also in disbelief after the events of March 15th and suggested different ways that students could show their support for the Muslim community.

“The sun is shining; it’s a beautiful day in Palmerston North and, like me, I imagine many people feel guilty at the prospect of enjoying it,” he said.

“If you need to express your grief in a meaningful way, flowers and well wishes to the Palmerston North Mosque have been warmly received by the larger community in a show of unification within our city,” he said.

He also reinforced that MUSA will continue to provide advocacy and assistance, and will do everything it can to provide safety for its students.

The ASA executives and staff also extended their condolences and deepest sympathies to victims on their Facebook page.

ASA student president Meity Tang said she had noticed how many New Zealanders had come out of their homes to visit mosques with flowers and beautiful messages of peace and love.

“We at ASA are looking into how we can support our Muslim brothers and sisters during this time of hardship and are looking into smaller activities that will be held in the student lounge,” said ASA student president Meity Tang.

Concerned students can contact security at any campus on 0800 627 750 at any time.