IIT-Bombay Strengthens Student Mental Health Support, Offers Salaries Up To Rs 1.6 Lakh To Counsellors After Sahil Wakode's Death

The Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay (IIT-B) is bolstering mental health support for its students in response to rising academic pressures and in the wake of a tragic incident. To address this concern, the institute plans to recruit nearly 30 counsellors, including 26 counsellors and four senior counsellors, through its Student Wellness Centre.

Among the selected candidates, approximately 10 will be provided with campus accommodation, potentially enhancing access to mental health support for students residing in hostels. The institute aims to offer salaries up to Rs 1.6 lakh to senior counsellors, according to India Today. Interviews for these positions will take place between October 12 and 18, with appointments commencing on October 15. Interested applicants can submit their applications online until October 17.

The selected counsellors will collaborate with undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD students, offering counselling services to those experiencing emotional distress or mental health issues. They will also identify students who require additional assistance and refer them to appropriate support or treatment. For senior counsellors, candidates must possess at least 10 years of experience, preferably working with teenagers and young adults in residential educational institutions and handling challenging student situations. Knowledge of Indian languages other than English and Hindi may be advantageous.

The recruitment drive will include both full-time and part-time positions. Full-time counsellors will work 40 hours per week, while part-time counsellors will work 20 hours per week. The initial appointment will be for 89 days, with the possibility of extension based on performance. The interview process will vary based on the candidates' locations, with Mumbai-based applicants interviewed in person and those residing outside Mumbai interviewed online.

A committee has also been formed to review academic procedures following the suicide of a second-year student, Sahil Wakode. This committee will examine the Departmental Academic Committee (DAC) and associated bodies' functioning and standard operating procedures for cases involving examination malpractice, aiming to strengthen procedural fairness.