Understanding Holistic Development and Wellness: Experiences and Perspectives of Filipino Student Leaders

Abstract

This study focused on how student leaders coming from different higher education institutions (HEIs) in the Philippines understand Holistic Development and Wellness based on their experiences and perspectives. Literature tells us about the clear role of HEIs in ensuring the holistic development and wellness of the students. It is part of their responsibility to create programs and policies that promote the development of students in different aspects. This responsibility is being shared among the members of the community like the administrators, teachers, and even with the students. Active student leaders are believed to play an active role in leading the implementation of programs and activities promoting holistic development and wellness. Given this, it is very crucial for them to understand the value of the two concepts as well as their role. This qualitative study utilized narrative inquiry as a method and approach in documenting and analyzing the student leaders’ understanding of holistic development and wellness. Their stories were captured after engaging in an interactive youth forum. Their narratives showed clear understanding of the concepts and regarded holistic development as being integrated with wellness that allows individuals reach full potential. Their experiences and perspectives as student leaders allowed them to propose possible contributions and set action plans to ensure holistic development and wellness of students in their respective institutions. This also allowed them to reflect on the support that they will be needing from the members of the school community.