Short Description
Kota, Rajasthan, has witnessed a significant 38% decline in student suicides in 2024, attributed to new initiatives aiming to create a safer and supportive environment for academic aspirants.
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Approximately 3 minutes and 30 seconds.
Main Article
Rajasthan’s Kota, a city renowned as the coaching nexus for engineering and medical aspirants, is seeing a welcome change in its troubling trend of student suicides. In 2024, cases dropped by an impressive 38%, reducing from 26 reported incidents in 2023 to just 16 so far this year. This remarkable turnaround is largely credited to the district administration’s stringent adherence to protocols and innovative initiatives designed to cultivate a more secure academic atmosphere.
One of the key strategies implemented includes the WHO-protocol gate-keeper training for hostel wardens, equipping them with the necessary skills to identify and assist struggling students. The introduction of initiatives such as SOS Help, which offers psychological support, and engaging student programs like ‘Dinner with Collector’ and ‘Samwad,’ have also played vital roles in fostering connections between students and local authorities. Furthermore, the Kalika Squad, established by the police, specifically focuses on the safety and security of female students, thus addressing a critical aspect of student welfare. District collector Dr. Ravindra Goswami emphasized the importance of these measures, noting interactions with over 25,000 students to provide guidance and address their concerns directly.
To further solidify their commitment, the district administration and coaching stakeholders launched the Kota Cares initiative during the recent Kota Mahotsav. This program highlights Kota’s significant impact on education, noting that the city has coached over one crore students nationwide. Their collaborative efforts have helped re-establish confidence in the coaching industry, despite facing challenges due to negative publicity surrounding student suicides in prior years. As articulated by Dr. Goswami, the goal remains to create an environment conducive to learning and well-being, ensuring that Kota is known for its educational excellence rather than its tragic headlines.
Additionally, the coaching capital has navigated the repercussions of new central regulatory guidelines and the growth of coaching branches across India, which have started influencing its revenue streams. Stakeholders acknowledge these shifts and are adapting strategies to maintain their competitive edge while prioritizing student mental health.
Short Summary
In conclusion, Kota’s successful 38% decline in student suicides within one year showcases the effectiveness of new safety measures and student engagement initiatives. By prioritizing mental health and well-being, Kota is redefining its reputation as a global coaching hub, reaffirming its dedication to student success and safety.
