University investigates professor’s alleged taunting of student with depression

AMMAN — A circulated audio recording of a professor at a public university in Jordan allegedly taunting a student for presenting a medical report for a mental health excused absence due to depression sparked angry reactions across social media platforms.

In the circulated audio, which was recorded during a lecture at the School of Medicine, the professor allegedly says: “Where’s the one with the mental illness? … he should stand up before I say his name”. Spokesperson at Mutah University Waleed Rawadieh issued a statement on Monday evening, saying that “the university will investigate the incident and take the necessary measures to address it”.

In an interview with The Jordan Times, psychiatrist Walid Sarhan noted that the social stigma associated with mental illnesses is still a “main hindrance” to seeking professional help. 

“It’s sad and deplorable that such an action could come from a medical professional, who ought to be a role model,” one Jordanian Facebook user posted on her page.