NIT Kurukshetra trains faculty on mentoring skills, mental health

The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Kurukshetra, in collaboration with the NIT Kurukshetra Alumni Association, organised a three-day Faculty Development and Upgradation Programme on “Student Mentoring Skills and Positive Environment Building”.

Held from July 6 to 8, the programme aimed to strengthen faculty mentoring skills, promote student mental well-being, and foster a supportive and inclusive campus environment in line with the holistic vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The programme brought together eminent psychologists, psychiatrists, corporate leaders and behavioural science experts, who shared practical insights on student mentoring, emotional well-being, stress management and effective communication.

Nearly 100 faculty members from various departments actively participated in interactive sessions, discussions and practical activities designed to enhance their mentoring skills and professional capabilities.

Dr Gunjan Arora, an eminent psychologist, said the role of a teacher extends beyond classroom instruction to that of a mentor, guide, motivator and facilitator of holistic student development. She encouraged participants to adopt a student-centred mentoring approach that promotes both academic excellence and emotional well-being. Dr Atul Kumar, a senior clinical psychologist, discussed the growing mental health challenges faced by students and stressed the need to create psychologically safe and supportive campuses.

He sensitised faculty members to identify the early signs of emotional distress, develop effective communication strategies and facilitate timely professional intervention whenever required.

Psychologist Jyoti Vashishtha focused on the practical aspects of student mentoring, emotional intelligence, behavioural training and mental well-being.

Susmita Ravindranth Shukla, former director at Philips India, linked the timeless teachings of the Bhagavad Gita with modern stress management practices. She highlighted the importance of self-awareness, mindfulness, emotional balance, calmness and selfless action in leading a purposeful and meaningful life.

Dr Neha Dua Sobti, consultant psychiatrist and mental health specialist, sensitised participants to the evolving emotional, psychological and behavioural characteristics of today’s students. She also highlighted the increasing prevalence of stress, anxiety and depression among students.

Himshikha Singhi, an applied English and soft skills trainer, demonstrated how emotional intelligence, effective communication and empathetic interactions can significantly strengthen mentor-mentee relationships and improve classroom engagement.