COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all the economies and brought in an unprecedented change across sectors, especially the academic sector. Adapting to the new normal seems to be the only way forward for millennial scholars. This study explores the possibility of augmenting learning and the holistic development of scholars of higher education institutions (HEIs) by leveraging emotional intelligence (EI) to strategize practices that help in learning and development for the unforeseen future. Sustainable development strategies for HEIs are important imperatives in the new normal. This qualitative study using thematic analysis draws inputs from focus group discussions among 21 psychologists who are university campus counsellors. Fear of uncertainty and Impulse control emerged as major themes for student challenges in the new normal. Study findings illustrate the suitability of EI strategies for millennials to cope with the uncertainty skills and competencies needed for adapting. EI dimensions like self-awareness, self-control, adaptability and general mood are most relevant to deal with unknown future challenges. Sub-themes of stakeholder initiatives were identified as inclusion of EI in curriculum, life skill training and mental health profiling. This original study adds value as an exploratory study to form the foundation for quantitative analysis and shares perspectives for stakeholders of higher education.
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