IIT Bombay
It also announced the introduction of an associate dean for student wellness.
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. A student survey on mess services has concluded, and its findings will help shape the model, said the email to campus residents. The update said options for replacing hostel fans had been identified after testing and consultations with manufacturers. “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.
The move comes amid criticism of IIT’s handling of suicides involving SC/ST students. 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. 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 final choice will depend on student feedback through a survey.
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.
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.