BHU launches student counseling initiative; deploys counselors across all faculties

NEW DELHI: Banaras Hindu University has introduced a new initiative focused on student well-being, expanding its support across all faculties. The BHU has launched a comprehensive student counseling programme aimed at helping students identify their strengths, overcome challenges, and achieve success.

As per BHU, initially piloted two years ago at Mahila Mahavidyalaya, the university's women’s college, the counseling initiative demonstrated effectiveness in aiding students academically and personally. Following its success, the initiative now includes fifteen counselors assigned to various faculties, ensuring broader support for the entire student body.

Training of Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan fellows

For the 2024-25 academic year, the university has selected and trained 15 Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan fellows, all of whom have a background in psychology and have completed their education at BHU . The BHU press release read. “Their primary role will be to act as change agents, fostering positivity and engagement among students through innovative counseling methods and creative approaches.”

Inauguration of counseling center ‘Pahal’

As part of the initiative, vice-chancellor, Sudhir Kumar Jain inaugurated the counseling center at Mahila Mahavidyalaya on the 78th Independence Day. As per BHU , the newly established facility, called ‘Pahal,’ will offer students a secure environment to seek guidance, express their concerns, and receive professional counseling services.

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The BHU counseling facility was established under the guidance of Nishat Afroz, associate dean of students (student development). She emphasized on the fact that initiatives like this, driven by the visionary leadership of vice-chancellor Sudhir Kumar Jain, are essential in providing students with the resources and support they need to pursue their dreams and goals.

Alignment with NEP 2020

As per BHU, the university has already implemented student well-being programmes across all faculties, providing various activities aimed at promoting students' overall growth and development. “This initiative by BHU comes at a time when nationwide implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 is taking place. The policy emphasizes the promotion of students' physical, psychological, and emotional well-being,” further read the BHU press release.