Student Support Guide 2024
The Student Support Unit at the International Institute of Health Sciences (IIHS) is a dedicated and caring resource designed to empower and uplift students in their academic journey and personal growth within the dynamic field of health sciences. Committed to fostering an inclusive and nurturing environment, the department provides comprehensive assistance, guidance, and services that enable students to excel in their studies, develop as professionals, and thrive in their personal lives.
Special Note:
Discipline and Behaviour Guideline
Students are expected to familiarize themselves with the Discipline and Behaviour Guidelines of IIHS. This document explains the Uniform, dress code, expected discipline, conduct etc. It can be viewed at https://bit.ly/DsBeGuide (download).
a.Course information
b.Post-IIHS pathways / Internships etc.
c.Career Counselling
d.Learning difficulties
e.Personal difficulties
f.Housing and Accommodation
g.Employment Opportunities
h.Links to other key support agencies
i.Health, wellness, and wellbeing
j.Any other stress management support
a.Members of the Academic Team (Lecturers and Teachers)
b.Course Counsellors
c.Social Workers
d.College Psychologist
e.Attendance Counsellor
f.College Nurse
g.Academic & Non-Academic Coordinators
a.Providing students with support if they are finding it difficult to adjust to life at IIHS
b.Helping students to resolve any issues which may affect their studies (eg: traveling long distances to and from the university).
c.Supporting Rural Students.
5.1Learning Support Services
At IIHS, students are expected to fulfill the requirements of their respective programs. Students are always encouraged to participate in ongoing program activities and engage in the process of attentive learning.
In order to do this, IIHS provides support in the areas of,
a.Academic writing
b.Note-taking - Tips and Methods for Studying Effectively
c.Time management
d.Introducing Mentorship Services
e.This includes providing students access to peer-assisted study sessions, which are specifically designed to aid in comprehending course materials, creating notes, and preparing for the upcoming modules.
f.student Attendance for lectures.
a.It is an expectation at IIHS that students attend all classes, complete assignments and abide by the rules of the campus.
b.Success at the university is closely linked to good attendance. Students are expected to attend all classes and complete work in all subjects in which they are enrolled. Subject Lecturers will check and record attendance for every lesson.
c.If students are absent from class, they will not only be missing important subject work but will have problems in their final assessments and attendance percentages
d.If absences occur without a valid explanation, the Lecturer or Academic Head may contact parents or guardians to discuss any problems the student may be having and aim to put in place measures to improve attendance.
e.Prior approval must be obtained for leave of absence; such prior approval will be considered for legitimate purposes as listed: illness (maybe informed over the phone in the event of sudden illness; a medical certificate is required after 5 days of absence), death or other important event in the family, participation in state sporting, academic or cultural events, etc.
f.Leave of absence will not be granted for excuses such as missing a bus, sleeping late etc. These absences will be recorded as “Unauthorized” in the relevant student’s records.
a.Providing Tutorial assistance for students who are struggling with studies
b.Working with parents/guardian to ensure students’ course choices maximize learning outcomes.
However, if a student requires further support or has any concerns, he/she is welcome to contact the relevant program coordinator. An appointment can be made through an email stating your concern. IIHS encourages students to use our support services promptly to maximize their success.
English Proficiency Testing is a vital step in embarking on the journey towards becoming a recognized professional. It is important and beneficial for students who wish to migrate in order to complete their courses in partnered universities, as well as to elevate the standard of professional development. As a successful provider of standardized language support for students, IIHS has introduced English learning modules throughout the duration of the course. Additionally, it will offer specialized IELTS /PTE/OET practice classes in the final year to ensure your success.
IIHS provides great care for its students and is responsible for promoting safety within the premises. If any student faces a situation in which medical assistance is required, the student is advised to visit the Medical Room on 4th Floor (at Multiversity) or the Impulse Healthcare Centre (if the student is at Welisara).
Impulse Healthcare is an on-campus healthcare provider at Welisara with in-house medical staff including certified doctors and nurses. It also has a Pharmacy.
Impulse Healthcare Contact No: - 071 335 3114
Other Emergencies
Additionally, students should pay attention to the instructions and notices alongside maps of the premises which are placed in each room with fire exit directions and building exits which are to be followed in case of an emergency.
In case of an emergency, students should not hesitate to contact the state emergency numbers which are:
011 233 0646
In the event of a fire, the Fire Alarm will sound, and all occupants must immediately leave the building using the designated exit, and proceed to the point designated for the relevant floor. Elevators must not be used and students and staff must not delay in leaving the building.
In our efforts to improve the lives of students, we are fully prepared to offer the necessary mental and emotional assistance whenever needed
Students can make an appointment by;
a.Visiting the Student Support Unit
b.Sending an email to -: studentsupport@iihsciences.edu.lk
What we offer through our Counselling Services: counsellors to assist them with any problems which may be impacting their ability to participate in University activities
c.Providing students with the services of qualified counsellors to assist them in issues pertaining to their studies or in their personal life.
d.Offering students the opportunity to talk with a member of our Student Support team about any difficulties they may be experiencing.
e.At IIHS, students do not have to be alone when dealing with life stresses. Crossing borders and changing environments can be quite exciting but also exhausting. For that reason, IIHS is ever ready to help International Students in a smooth transition. Through the Student Support Unit, a student can request an appointment with a counsellor. Our counsellors are specially qualified professionals will provide you an individualized approach with constant reassurance. Students would be encouraged to up-lift professional relationships with colleagues and members of staff throughout this process. The counselors are also able to make referrals for third-party assistance from qualified medical professionals if required.
Students will have access to the following:
a.Supportive listening for personal and faith concerns
b.Calm space for reflection, companionship, and refreshment
c.Facilities for prayer and worship
d.1 on 1 support for emotional distress
e.Stress management workshops
f.Support groups
g.On-going Support for students with mental health issues
If a student comes across unforeseen financial difficulties either at the time of enrollment or throughout the duration of their studies IIHS provides students financial assistance for through:
11.1 Scholarships
11.2 Student Loan Services (agreements made with banks allow such services)
11.3 Easy Payment Schemes
11.4 Work-Study Program
Please contact the IIHS student support unit for assistance.
IIHS provides a shuttle service that can be used by students travelling to and from the City of Colombo and Makola/ Kadawatha/ Ja-Ela.
If you are a local student and wish to use the shuttle service, you are required to:
a.Forward your request with details of your location to the Operations department
b.Make the required payment and you will be issued an IIHS travel pass.
Shuttle services are provided by IIHS between Welisara and Multiversity Campuses during the day as per a schedule.
The Housing Connect Service of IIHS assists students to source accommodation for students. Finding easily accessible accommodation may be challenging for students. Through the Student Support System, IIHS would help students find accommodation that is affordable, accessible from the Campus, and within a safe environment. The IIHS has several registered places of accommodation. Students may contact Student Support either through email (studentsupport@iihsciences.edu.lk) and/ or by meeting them in person.
Once accommodation is found and registered, students must stay at such address.
Safety is a primary concern at IIHS. In order to keep both students and staff members safe, they will:
a.Be required to familiarize themselves with the safety protocols and procedures of each Lab. They will be required to strictly adhere to these protocols, as a violation of these guidelines will have serious consequences.
b.Be trained in various areas such as fire drills, first aid, and CPR.
Visa Application:
Students from overseas wishing to study at IIHS will require visas and regular renewal of visas during the course of study. For this process to be less complicated and prompt, an international student will be required to
15.1 Be familiar with the visa requirements of the country and the renewal process.
15.2 Submit copies of all required documents for the visa during the registration time.
15.3 Submit a request for ‘renewal support documents’ to IIHS, such as student confirmation letters, progress reports, etc. at least 6 weeks prior to the renewal date.
15.4 Keep in mind that any request takes a minimum period to process. All requests given at the last minute will involve a “one-day processing” fee.
15.5 After the completion of the pathway program, you can then apply to the foreign university that you have chosen to complete your degree programme. For this purpose, you would be well advised to Contact GHC Global, a partnered company of IIHS, and commence the document preparation.
15.6 Provide required information in a timely manner. Any delays in document submission will cause delays in the application approval process.
15.7 GHC Office will maintain your file and any documents required from IIHS will be submitted only upon request, such as attested copies of progress reports, academic transcripts, completion certificates etc.
Contact info@ghcedu.lk for further queries.
Notes:
Students will be assisted through documentation preparation and will be provided individualized support throughout the process.
International students are given the facility of airport pickups
International Students with an existing insurance plan are required to provide details of their medical cover and insurance to IIHS, whilst students who wish to apply for medical insurance locally may seek advice and guidance from our Student Support Unit. They will ensure that you are guided appropriately and will help you arrange a medical insurance policy that is right for you.
The languages that are primarily used in Sri Lanka would be Sinhala and Tamil, thus, students continuing courses at IIHS would be attending placements in which these primary languages are spoken. Since international students may not be fluent in Sinhala and Tamil, a language training program would take place during the orientation period with an introduction to the basics of the languages, that could be used in the healthcare or education setting.
Students will be guided by a mentor and peers who are proficient in both languages. Additionally, to avoid further language barriers, we could organize local student support during clinical placements, rotations, or blocks where the support person will act as a translator, ensuring a smooth transition into the clinical placement.
The Financial Management Support at IIHS is tailored to facilitate easy enrollment and provide students from diverse international backgrounds with seamless access to a world-class education. Students enrolling at IIHS will benefit from a range of financial resources, including personalized guidance from dedicated financial advisors and counseling sessions as part of the orientation program. Through the Student Support Unit, financial management officers are readily available to discuss and maneuver any concerns you may have. Support can be given in:
16.1 Creating your local bank account.
16.2 Wise spending and managing your expenses.
All students are required to be a part of all the student societies at IIHS. Being a part of these societies ensures student integration across all cultural and ethnic groups. You will feel a sense of belonging while enjoying your studies at IIHS. The following societies are active:
This student group organizes all extra-curricular activities Cultural events, Blood donation and other health-related campaigns, Fun Nights, Christmas Caroling, End of Year Dance/Bash, Avurudhu Festival, Talent Shows, Musical Events, and many more.
This student group mainly supports research and community projects and other academic co-curricular activities. Students along with the Research Unit of IIHS, organize workshops, conferences, and research forums both locally and internationally. They also oversee the student mentorship programmes and ensure that all students get the needed academic support.
This student group focuses on sports activities and events such as cricket, football, badminton, table tennis, and other outdoor sports. They also have indoor sports challenges such as chess and carrom.
The sports society also supports the Impulse Physiotherapy Unit and gives students and staff:
The committee's primary goal is to provide a platform for students to showcase their talents in music, arts, dance, and drama. Through various initiatives and events, the committee aims to encourage students to explore and develop their artistic abilities. MADD organizes talent shows and competitions to showcase the diverse skills of the students. The committee also collaborates with professionals in the respective fields to provide guidance and mentorship to students, helping them nurture their talents and build confidence in their artistic abilities. By fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, the committee aims to bring out the best in every student and promote a vibrant arts and culture scene within the community.
The Flouna Club of IIHS is an innovative and vibrant student organization dedicated to fostering a deeper connection between urban environments and nature. Comprising passionate students from diverse disciplines, this club strives to create awareness about sustainable urban ecosystems, biodiversity conservation, and green urban planning. Through a combination of educational workshops, community engagement initiatives, and research projects, the Flouna Club at IIHS is committed to promoting the harmonious coexistence of urban development and ecological preservation, contributing to a more sustainable and livable future.
IIHS is home to many cultures and traditions. At IIHS, there are many programs and measures taken to promote the fluidity of all our students so that international students can immerse themselves in Sri Lankan culture, while local students have the opportunity to explore and appreciate cultures foreign to Sri Lanka. The activities and measures include (and are not limited to):
right at the coast
IIHS is committed to finding the best pathways for its alumni following the completion of their course. It guides students in actively planning and allowing them to reach their ultimate goal and become valuable members of society. Career Development Programs will be accessed through the Student Support System.
Students would have early access to their chosen industry or field by working with GHC. Due to the guidance provided by the GHC and its effectiveness, students are able to find jobs for their pursued pathways as promptly as possible and settle down with no pressure. Students seeking the support of GHC Global may directly contact them and or may request support from an officer in the Student Support Service unit.
The accessibility to sites, facilities, and buildings is one of the most important prerequisites for differently-abled students. The Primary Goal of IIHS for differently abled students is to make them feel confident about their education provider and environment. We are certain that the presence of a spacious and comfortable environment will ensure their success in all aspects of college life.
Currently, IIHS has implemented measures to install an access ramp in essential areas of the campus, to minimize the difficulties faced by the students who need extra attention. Further, IIHS is equipped with a special elevator transporting system aided for disability. In addition, IIHS will allow students to contact the relevant authorities to discuss further support or additional adjustments if there is such a requirement.
We support students who have sensory and physical disabilities, medical conditions, autistic spectrum conditions as well as those with specific learning difficulties (Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, etc.)
We offer:
a. Advice and guidance on reasonable adjustments, general support, and
anything else that we can
b. Liaison with academic and professional staff as needed
c. Specialist 1 to 1 study skills for students with disabilities and specific learning difficulties.
d. Workshops
e. Individual exam arrangements (the deadline for requesting exam arrangements is early in Term 1)
f. Opportunities to meet other differently-abled students
Please contact the IIHS Student Support unit for more details.
IIHS provides an inclusive orientation program to open the door to a paramount experience for students. Whether you are coming to IIHS as a fresher, transferee, or as an international student, there are engaging programs to assist you with the transition to life at IIHS.
Every orientation session consists of a program-oriented session presentation on
a. academic transition
b. program registration assistance and review (for proper registration)
c. a tour of IIHS,
d. getting your college ID card and the library card
e. the information on services such as student support services, accommodation services
The IIHS creates and executes a comprehensive program and a range of services aimed at promoting, supporting, and enriching the academic and extracurricular co-curricular experiences of newly enrolled students.
Getting a good start is critical to success,
a. A tour of IIHS is a session focused on familiarizing themselves with their new surroundings.
b. Soon after the completion of induction tests and briefing on the Learner Management System, a comprehensive course-oriented program will be running in order to improve basic and advanced skills that are essential for college life.
c. Furthermore, IIHS will be taking steps to brush up on English Language and Academic Writing Skills along with higher learning strategies which will be helpful during the college period.
d. Simultaneously, orientation will pay equal attention to developing personality, teamwork, and Leadership qualities. In addition, IIHS will enlighten students on conflict management and problem-solving strategies to overcome day-to-day challenges.
e. One of the most thorough aspects of orientation involves Referencing, which entails recognizing the sources of information you utilized in researching your assignment.
f. Moreover, IIHS will provide an overview of the basic communication (Native Languages) in the healthcare setting.
g. In addition, if students have missed a few classes due to late enrolment, IIHS will be conducting catchup classes for such students to avoid missing any of the important sessions.
GHC Global Education Services :
GHC Global Education is one of the most reliable education consultants on the island. GHC offers services to students who are keen on Higher Education in foreign countries. GHC assists students from all backgrounds to achieve their dreams in an internationally recognized overseas qualification.
a. GHC's approach involves providing personalized guidance by conducting a systematic analysis of the most suitable study program within the realm of education options.
b. Furthermore, inclusive services are available, such as facilitating the acquisition of offer letters from international universities, offering guidance on IELTS and PTE requirements, and directing students to reputable tutors within the island.
c. Additionally, GHC provides support to students throughout the visa application process, including linking the students with educational institutions and relevant immigration authorities.
d. Furthermore, GHC assists students in finding part-time employment and accommodation at an affordable cost.
e. Being a reputed agency, GHC arranges flight reservations and airport pickup by coordinating with travel agents.
f. Contact: info@ghcedu.lk
IIHS provides a wide array of career-related resources and services to meet the needs of all students and Alumni. Students are highly encouraged to be a part of the working community to gain valuable work experience.
IIHS directs the students to Internship programs by providing them access to the field or industry in which students are majoring.
In addition, IIHS allows students to work part-time as executive assistants in Marketing, Human Resources, and Academics to provide an overall idea of how the organization runs. Through this, the students will ultimately overcome the lack of sufficient work experience that will be compensated by participation in an internship.
IIHS is committed to providing a valuable experience by offering students the opportunity for rapid personal and professional growth through sharpening and expanding their environmental and professional skills during the period of 4-6 months of free time until the commencement of the university enrollment.
International Institute of Health Sciences
Multiversity
No. 312/15, St. Joseph Mw, Kerawalapitiya Rd, Wattala
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