Mumbai: IIT Bombay is preparing a broad revamp of its student wellness programmes, alongside changes to hostel facilities, flexible mess services and relaxed exam schedules, according to an update it sent to students. The move comes amid criticism of IIT’s handling of suicides involving SC/ST students.
It also announced the introduction of an associate dean for student wellness. A first draft of proposed deterrent measures against unfair means in exams is ready for discussion and a decision at an emergency senate meeting. The end-semester exam schedule has also been reviewed, with an alternative timeline under consideration.
Changes to the flexi-mess system are ready; interestingly, this was put together earlier by Prof Suryanarayana Doolla when he was the dean of student affairs, but it was awaiting approvals.
A plan to rebuild the institute’s wellness support structure is ready, with a phased rollout expected to begin this week, said the update that was sent on behalf of IIT director Prof Shireesh Kedare.
IIT Bombay is identifying committees where student participation can be increased and is working on a system to appoint student-wellness secretaries at the hostel level.
An update sent by the institute to its students said it had held discussions with students and their representatives on academic, career and wellbeing concerns. “Plans to create play areas in hostels are underway.” The institute said it would seek suggestions from general secretaries, sports councillors and wardens to identify suitable spaces, understand residents’ concerns and assess access to the proposed facilities.
A student survey on mess services has concluded, and its findings will help shape the model, said the email to campus residents. The institute is beginning the process of re-tendering and appointing caterers, with further details to follow. The message, issued on behalf of IIT Bombay director Prof Shireesh Kedare, urged students to take part in surveys and contribute to the proposed changes.
The update said options for replacing hostel fans had been identified after testing and consultations with manufacturers. The final choice will depend on student feedback through a survey.
“Meetings with heads of departments have focused on increasing student participation at the department level and establishing the support students need for their wellbeing,” the message read.
Earlier on Sunday, Ambedkar Periyar Phule Study Circle, in a statement, alleged that the committee investigating suicides involving SC/ST students had “too quickly” dismissed the possibility of caste discrimination, and APPSC questioned whether its conclusions had been predetermined. It called for an independent inquiry without institutional interference, led by an SC/ST member and including an external expert in the field. The statement also sought at least 50% SC/ST representation and a minimum of 50% women on the committee, with members drawn from different disciplines.
Meanwhile, Ravindra Wakode and his wife continued their fast at Azad Maidan for the sixth day and eight-odd IITB students held their relay fast.
