IIT Kharagpur is preparing to launch the ‘Campus Mothers’ initiative—a unique program that will train women to provide emotional support and guidance to students in distress. This innovative effort reflects the institute’s commitment to creating a nurturing environment and tackling the challenges of academic stress, isolation, and emotional turmoil that many students face in today’s competitive educational landscape.
The pressures of rigorous academics, high expectations, and life away from home can take a toll on students’ mental health. Recognizing the urgent need for a compassionate support system, IIT Kharagpur’s administration has designed the ‘Campus Mothers’ program to:
Trained women, known as ‘Campus Mothers,’ will serve as approachable figures students can turn to for emotional support, empathy, and non-judgmental listening.
Many students hesitate to approach formal counselors or faculty with their personal struggles. Campus Mothers aim to fill this gap, providing a familiar, motherly presence that encourages openness and trust.
By fostering a sense of belonging and care, the initiative seeks to reduce feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression among students.
Women from the campus community—including faculty spouses, staff, and alumni—will be invited to participate. They will undergo specialized training in active listening, empathy, basic counseling skills, and crisis intervention, conducted by mental health professionals.Campus Mothers will be available at designated locations and times, offering a safe space for students to talk about their worries, academic pressures, or personal issues.
While Campus Mothers will not replace professional mental health counselors, they will work in tandem with the institute’s wellness center, referring students to specialists when needed. Strict protocols will ensure that all conversations remain confidential, fostering a trusting environment for students.
By involving women as key emotional anchors on campus, the initiative also promotes women’s participation and leadership in the academic community. By making emotional support more accessible and less stigmatized, the program encourages students to seek help early, preventing crises before they escalate. The presence of Campus Mothers is expected to foster a more compassionate and inclusive campus culture, where every student feels seen and supported.
Student mental health has become a pressing concern across India, with rising cases of stress-related issues, anxiety, and even suicides reported at premier institutes. IIT Kharagpur’s proactive approach signals a shift towards holistic student care, emphasizing not just academic excellence but also emotional resilience and well-being.
The ‘Campus Mothers’ initiative is set to roll out in the upcoming academic session, with plans for regular training, feedback, and expansion based on student response. The institute will also monitor the program’s impact through surveys and mental health metrics, aiming for continuous improvement.
