GUWAHATI: The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati has introduced morning walks with faculty members to ensure the mental wellbeing of its students, amid protests on the campus last semester after consecutive suicides.
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According to reports, other initiatives include ice-breaking sessions, and an acclimatisation programme during the first week on campus for freshers. No academic classes will be held during this period to help students adjust to their new environment.
"The ice-breaking sessions will help expand the students' social networks, enabling them to connect with their peers through enjoyable activities," Perumal Alagarsamy, the dean of student affairs at IIT-Guwahati, reportedly said.
A peer mentorship programme has also reportedly been introduced, pairing freshers with senior students who will assist them in navigating campus life. Additionally, the institute has set up a Centre for Holistic Wellbeing, which includes the SAATHI Counselling Club, comprising student volunteers and professional counsellors.
To further support students, IIT-Guwahati is considering appointing retired army personnel as hostel stewards. These stewards will interact with students, observe their well-being, and confidentially share their insights with counsellors.
Nutritionists are also being hired to help students manage anxiety and stress through diet, while mandatory counselling sessions and comprehensive health check-ups have been scheduled for all students.
The counselling schedule will be planned in a way that does not clash with academic timetables.
