To create awareness about mental health policy and the institutional role in preventing suicides among students as per the guidelines of the Supreme Court, the Department of Collegiate Education, in collaboration with the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) and regional partner institutions, conducted a series of one-day orientation programmes across various districts in Karnataka.
According to NIMHANS, more than 420 Government First Grade Colleges and over 800 principals participated and received orientation on recognising and responding to student mental health concerns, strengthening institutional support systems, suicide prevention, mental health promotion, available tele-support services, and the use of digital mental health resources.
On August 11, the first programme, “Abhaya”, was organised at the NIMHANS Convention Centre, Bengaluru, in collaboration with Government Arts College, Hassan. Students from colleges across Bengaluru, Mysuru, Shivamogga, and Mangaluru participated in the first session. Similarly, the second session, “Beluguthirali Baduku”, was organised in Kalaburgi on September 2, where students and principals from Ballari and other districts also attended.
“Jeevanapreeti – Baalige Spoorthi” was the final session held in Dharwad on September 7 that brought together students from Hubballi, Haveri, Gadag, and other districts. Experts from NIMHANS created awareness on myths and facts related to mental health, developing institutional support systems, and the role of institutional leaders and faculty in creating supportive educational environments.
Published – September 10, 2026 11:38 pm IST
