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In an AI-driven world, connection remains the cornerstone of a healthy campus.
What does it mean to be resilient in a world shaped by constant connectivity, rising expectations and artificial intelligence? That question sat at the heart of the HECA Healthy Campus Forum 2026, held at Griffith College Dublin on March 25th.
Bringing together educators, researchers and students, the forum explored how higher education can respond to growing concerns around loneliness, digital overload and student wellbeing, while maintaining a strong sense of human connection.Family psychotherapist and author Dr Richard Hogan challenged the idea that resilience is about staying positive. Instead, he described it as the ability to navigate life’s natural fluctuations. Growth, he argued, is rarely linear. It involves setbacks, recalibration, and, crucially, learning not to take every negative thought at face value. In an age of comparison and pressure, that distinction is increasingly important.
The impact of digital life formed a key part of the discussion. Rob Mulcahy, Head of Athletic Development at Setanta College, highlighted the physical and psychological effects of prolonged screen use, linking it to poor sleep, reduced focus and increased anxiety. His focus remained practical: small interventions, such as movement breaks and reducing passive screen time, can significantly improve energy and wellbeing.
From a research perspective, Ilse White of the Learnovate Centre framed wellbeing as a balance between demands and resources. She emphasised the importance of autonomy, competence and connection in sustaining engagement, and described resilience as a skill that can be developed over time within supportive environments.
A powerful student perspective came from Patrice McGuinness of IICP College, whose account of navigating challenge and re-engagement brought immediacy to the themes discussed. Her experience highlighted the importance of support, routine and connection in enabling students to persist and succeed.
Across the forum, a clear message emerged. In an AI-rich world, where efficiency and automation are accelerating, the most valuable resource on campus remains human connection. Belonging, feeling seen, heard and supported continues to underpin both wellbeing and academic success.A sincere thank you is extended to the HECA Healthy Campus Group for convening a timely and thought-provoking event that created space for meaningful dialogue and shared learning across the sector.
