To help students cope with mental stress and reduce suicide risks, the Gujarat government on Monday issued guidelines making mental health support mandatory in all universities and colleges across the state.
The government has directed all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to appoint at least one qualified psychological counsellor or engage trained psychologists and social workers to support students’ mental well-being. The directive applies to both government and private universities and their affiliated colleges.
Acting on Supreme Court directions, the Education Department has implemented a uniform state-level mental health policy in line with the Manodarpan initiative and the National Suicide Prevention Strategy. The policy focuses on early intervention, counselling and awareness to prevent suicides among youth.
As per the circular, every college must ensure continuous psychological support for students, especially during examinations and periods of career transition. Institutions must also display and promote suicide prevention helplines such as Tele-MANAS, mental health services and details of nearby hospitals across campuses, classrooms and hostels. Even colleges with fewer than 100 students will be required to appoint an external professional counsellor.
Colleges and universities must conduct mandatory training sessions twice a year for teaching and non-teaching staff to help them identify signs of self-harm and guide students towards timely psychological care.
Staff have been instructed to be sensitive and supportive towards students from SC, ST, OBC, economically weaker sections, LGBTQ+ community, Divyang and other marginalised groups, as well as those who have previously attempted suicide or are under trauma. Institutions must also organise regular awareness programmes for parents to help them understand mental health issues, academic pressure and the need for empathetic support.
The guidelines also call for career counselling sessions involving students and their guardians, along with the organisation of non-academic activities such as Khel Mahakumbh and NSS programmes. Hostels must be equipped with anti-suicide safety measures, including specialised ceiling fans and restricted access to rooftops and balconies.
No discrimination or humiliation
Educational institutions and coaching centres have been directed not to discriminate against or publicly humiliate students on the basis of caste, academic performance or any other factor. The guidelines also warn against setting unrealistic expectations for students.
Strong system against harassment
Institutions must establish a robust, accessible and reliable mechanism to address sexual harassment, ragging and discrimination based on gender, caste, disability, religion or ethnicity. The system must ensure immediate psychological support, student safety and protection against retaliation for complainants.