In response to the alarming surge in student suicides, Kota, the bustling education hub of India, is taking decisive actions to address the...
Digital Desk: In response to the alarming surge in student suicides, Kota, the bustling education hub of India, is taking decisive actions to address the mental health crisis afflicting its young aspirants. A high-level meeting convened on Monday brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from coaching institutes, the hostel association, and government officials, to chart a course to combat this crisis that has sent shockwaves throughout the nation.
Chaired by Bhawani Singh Detha, the principal secretary of higher and technical education and chairman of the committee formed by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot to tackle this issue, the meeting yielded a slew of critical decisions aimed at safeguarding the mental well-being of students.
One of the standout initiatives is the introduction of "half-day study, half-day fun" on every Wednesday in coaching institutes. During these sessions, routine tests will be suspended for the next two days, providing much-needed respite to students who are often caught in the relentless cycle of studies and exams.
Recognizing the need for expert guidance, coaching institutes have been tasked with creating committees of subject experts to alleviate the burden of coursework on students. Additionally, they are required to organize online motivational sessions conducted by experts and share them on social media platforms for the benefit of all students.
In a significant move to gauge students' mental health, a daily self-assessment form will be developed for coaching students. This tool will help identify those struggling with psychological issues, allowing for early intervention.
Furthermore, students who are absent from routine tests or exhibit poor performance will be earmarked for specialized psychological counseling.
The meeting comes hot on the heels of a tragic incident in which two NEET aspirants took their lives on Sunday. This has brought the total number of suicides in Kota to a staggering 22 in 2023, eclipsing the previous year's grim figure of 15.
Addressing the situation, Kota District Collector O P Bunkar commented, "It is an alarming situation as so many students are committing suicides." He emphasized that the decisions taken in the meeting are pivotal for reducing the students' stress levels and creating a more favorable learning environment.
In a groundbreaking proposal, Kota City SP Sharad Chaudhary suggested the establishment of an exclusive police station for students. Building on the existing students' police helpdesk, this dedicated station would cater specifically to students' concerns and issues. The proposal is set to be sent to the state government for approval in the coming days.
Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot had earlier convened a meeting on August 18 with all relevant stakeholders, leading to the formation of the committee headed by Bhawani Detha. The committee is expected to submit its comprehensive report within 15 days.
Kota, known as a magnet for aspiring engineers and medical professionals, sees over two lakh students flock to its coaching centers each year. These students come to prepare for competitive exams like the Joint Entrance Exam (JEE) and the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET). The recent surge in suicides has cast a shadow over this educational mecca, prompting a collective effort to prioritize the mental health and well-being of its young learners.
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