BITS Pilani Goa reviewed student wellness initiatives on Friday in response to six student suicides over the past three years. The meeting of the District Level Monitoring Committee focused on mental health, academic support, and campus safety measures.
Student Wellness Initiatives Reviewed
The committee, chaired by South Goa Collector Egna Cleetus, included officials from law enforcement, education, and social welfare departments. BITS Pilani Goa Dean Suman Kundu presented the institute’s updated framework.
Mental Health Support
BITS Pilani Goa has expanded professional mental health services. This includes:
- Engagement of dedicated counsellors and psychiatrists.
- Mental wellness and rejuvenation camps.
- The Mpower Centre, staffed by psychologists, therapists, and a psychiatrist.
- 24/7 medical services and dedicated helplines.
- COOJ counselling support and Myndwell assessments for early intervention.
Faculty and wardens have received Mental Health First Aid training. Initiatives like ‘Mitr’ (faculty-led hostel outreach) and ‘Sethu’ (faculty mentorship) connect students with support. Peer support systems include ‘Mental Health Buddies’ and an anonymous student group called ‘TAG’.
Academic and Campus Life Adjustments
Academic pressure is being addressed through several changes. These include:
- Liberal evaluation practices.
- Spaced examinations.
- Curriculum restructuring.
- A new course, ‘BITS K101 – Physical Well-being and Creativity’.
Campus life improvements aim to enhance student well-being. These include expanded sports facilities, open gyms, shuttle services, upgraded hostels, and extended library hours. Innovation hubs like ‘Challengathon’ and a 24/7 Innovation Lab are also active.
Safety Measures
Campus safety is reinforced through comprehensive CCTV coverage and X-ray screening at entry points. The institute maintains a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct.
The District Level Monitoring Committee reviewed these steps. They emphasized continued coordination between government departments and BITS Pilani Goa to ensure student safety and well-being.