KIIT University
The recent debates surrounding KIIT University and Ashoka University have brought renewed attention to the broader issue of student mental health in higher education across India. While these incidents have sparked discussions, they reflect a much larger crisis beyond any single institution. The pressures students face today are not limited to academic challenges but also include financial, social, and emotional stressors. Addressing these concerns requires a concerted effort from educational institutions, policymakers, and families to create a more supportive student environment.
Student suicides remain a distressing reality affecting institutions across the country, regardless of their academic standing. The issue is not isolated to any university but is a systemic problem that demands urgent attention. Even prestigious institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and medical colleges have grappled with mental health concerns. IIT Madras, for instance, has recorded multiple student suicides, highlighting the interplay of intense academic expectations, difficulties in social integration, and personal struggles. Medical colleges, known for their rigorous training programs, have also reported disproportionately high levels of anxiety and depression among students. According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Psychiatry, medical students are three times more likely to experience severe mental health issues than their peers in other academic fields. These findings underscore the need to re-evaluate the current educational environment and the pressures placed on students.
A 2023 report by the Ministry of Education revealed that nearly 20% of student suicides in higher education institutions were attributed to non-academic factors such as financial strain, relationship issues, and emotional distress. While academic pressure remains a significant contributor, many students struggle to adjust to new environments, particularly those from small towns and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Financial challenges are an essential stressor, especially for students studying in metropolitan cities such as Delhi. The suicide of a Delhi University student, reportedly due to financial difficulties, serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for stronger institutional support systems.
Beyond financial concerns, social isolation is another pressing issue. Many students relocating for higher education face difficulties adapting to a competitive academic setting and often lack a strong support network. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reported in 2022 that nearly 30% of student suicides were linked to "family problems" and "personal reasons," emphasising the need for institutions to develop comprehensive mental health support structures. Several universities have acknowledged the urgency of student mental health issues and have taken steps to address them.
According to Prof Jnyana Ranjan Mohanty, the Registrar of KIIT University, the educational institution has invested in various initiatives to foster a supportive academic environment. It has already established professional counselling services, mentorship programs, and mental health awareness campaigns to help students cope with stress. However, the recent tragedy at KIIT reminds us that even universities with established student welfare programs must continuously reassess their policies. Prof Mohanty further elaborates that KIIT has responded to the recent incident by reviewing its existing mental health initiatives and exploring further measures to ensure student well-being. This approach of KIIT highlights the importance of ongoing institutional introspection, where policies are updated to meet evolving student needs.
Experts suggest that addressing student suicides requires a multi-pronged approach involving universities, families, and society. Educational institutions must create an environment where seeking help is free of stigma and actively encouraged.
One of the significant challenges preventing students from seeking help is the stigma associated with mental health issues. Many students hesitate to access counselling or psychological support for fear of being judged. While universities such as KIIT have taken steps to improve accessibility to mental health services, further efforts are needed. Expanding peer-support networks, increasing awareness programs, and integrating wellness education into academic curricula could help normalise discussions around mental health.
Academic excellence should not come at the cost of student well-being. Institutions must ensure that their academic frameworks do not contribute to excessive stress and burnout. Introducing flexible curricula, alternative assessment models, and student-friendly academic policies can help create a more balanced learning environment. Universities must implement student-centred learning approaches, which could serve as a model for other universities looking to ease academic pressure without compromising educational quality. Encouraging extracurricular activities and structured breaks can help students maintain a healthy academic-life balance.
Another growing concern for students is financial stress, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds. Universities can play a crucial role by expanding financial aid programs, scholarships, and work-study opportunities to ensure that economic difficulties do not become an insurmountable educational barrier. Additionally, universities should foster inclusive environments where students from diverse backgrounds can integrate more seamlessly. Orientation programs, buddy systems, and faculty-led mentorship initiatives can help bridge social gaps and emotionally support new students. Prof Saranjit Singh, Vice Chancellor of KIIT University, agrees with this approach and states that KIIT has proactively offered scholarships and financial assistance to deserving students. He further elaborates that the organisation prioritises diversity and inclusivity, reflected in its diverse student base comprising more than 50 nationalities.
A student's mental well-being is not the responsibility of educational institutes alone. Parental expectations and societal pressures significantly affect student mental health. Hence, it is crucial for families to be aware of the challenges students face and to provide emotional support. Senior HR leader and expert Dr Tanaya Mishra emphasises, "Today the issue of mental wellness is a challenge not only faced by universities but corporate world as well. Organizations are spending billions of dollar realising mental wellness is an issue and proactive measures are taken like using big data to predict location specific suicide rate. Institutions like KIIT are in a better place to fight this menace by using AI, Big data and value based education" Taking upon itself this enormous responsibility, the leadership team of KIIT University aims to facilitate better parental involvement by organising well-being workshops, counselling sessions, and forums where parents can discuss their children's psychological challenges. Such steps by universities like KIIT, aimed at raising awareness within families about student mental health, could be crucial in preventing crises before they escalate. A supportive institutional framework is essential in identifying and assisting at-risk students. Universities must proactively intervene by training faculty and staff to recognise signs of distress. Some institutions are now incorporating AI-driven monitoring systems to detect patterns of academic and emotional struggles among students. Such initiatives can help universities reach out to students before issues escalate.
Prof Saranjit Singh claims that KIIT has been actively revisiting its policies in response to student concerns, and similar proactive efforts by other institutions could contribute to reducing mental health-related crises. Creating an environment where students feel safe to voice their struggles without fear of judgment or academic repercussions can significantly impact overall well-being. The issue of student suicides extends beyond higher education; it is a national challenge that requires collective action. Universities, policymakers, and families must collaborate to develop systems prioritising student mental health and well-being. KIIT's approach to continuous policy adaptation offers a potential framework for other institutions to follow. However, meaningful change requires collaboration between educational institutions, mental health professionals, and government bodies to ensure students are academically and emotionally supported.
This moment presents an opportunity for higher education institutions across India to re-examine their student support systems and take decisive steps toward creating more inclusive and resilient academic environments. Through sustained efforts and a commitment to student welfare, universities can contribute to a healthier, more balanced future for students navigating the complexities of modern education.
