IIT Kanpur Strengthens Mental Health Support, Academic Reforms for Student Well- Being

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur has expanded its support systems and established extensive initiatives to address the holistic development of its students as part of a committed effort to emphasise the mental health and general well-being of its student body. In response to recent tragic incidents, the institute—which is renowned for encouraging personal development outside of the classroom—has made major improvements to its Institute Counselling Service (ICS).

The ICS, a specialised centre with six clinical psychologists, student volunteers, and academic advisors, has added more experts to its staff. To supplement medical assistance for students, additional counsellors and hostel managers have been employed, guaranteeing a more comprehensive system to meet their requirements.

New welfare programmes, such as a bolstered PG Core Counselling team for quicker responses and more individualised mental health care, have been implemented to boost the support system. Academic stress, social isolation, and other issues that students confront have been identified and are being discussed at the department level. Senior postgraduate students will serve as mentors for newcomers to ease their transition and reduce feelings of isolation.

To create a helpful atmosphere outside of the classroom, a faculty guide system has been put in place to maintain open lines of communication for non-academic issues. Every semester, there will be programmes promoting mental health awareness, and interactive events at the hostel level will encourage positive involvement and community support.

In addition, a five-person review committee has been formed to swiftly and sympathetically handle student issues. The faculty-led group is actively seeking feedback from departments, alumni, and other relevant parties in order to formulate targeted recommendations for the Board, Senate, and administration.

Apart from mental health programmes, there have been notable academic improvements implemented in the last year, especially for graduate students. Among other things, these improvements include a flexible PhD programme with year-round admittance, more financial aid for PhD students, less required PhD courses, and accelerated thesis processing.

IIT Kanpur is unwavering in its dedication to establishing a friendly, inclusive, and intellectually rewarding environment. In order to create an environment that is favourable for learning and development, the institute places a high priority on each individual student’s mental and emotional health.