After student deaths, BITS Goa to revamp syllabus to cut stress

Panaji: After a student was reported to have died by suicide earlier this week at BITS Pilani K K Birla Goa campus, making this the third such student death at the institute in five months, the institute said it is taking a number of measures, including revamping its syllabus. The institute also said that students in distress will be offered flexibility in answering exams.
BITS Pilani Goa campus also said a ‘Student Wellbeing Dashboard’ is being developed to provide personalised support and timely interventions.
“We are revamping the existing curriculum, and a separate committee has been constituted to streamline the academic content. Students in distress have been given flexibility to take examinations at a later time. New courses on mental and physical wellness and stress management will be included in the revised curriculum,” said the institute.
The institute said it has initiated an internal review to understand how it can strengthen the support systems.
“The loss of our student, Krishna Kasera, has saddened the entire community. We understand that this is a difficult time for everyone, and we are dedicated to providing compassionate support and care to all members of our community. We are extending full support to the local authorities and the family,” the statement read.
BITS Pilani Goa campus said it already provides counselling services with psychologists and a 24x7 helpline, peer and faculty support groups, sports facilities and prolonged gym hours, listening circles, among other assistance to students.
“Increased counselling capacity with online psychologists and weekly psychiatrist consultations have further strengthened our efforts to provide proactive care. At the same time, we urge students to take that crucial first step. Acknowledge when you’re struggling and reach out for support. Reaching out is not a sign of weakness. It is a courageous act of self-awareness and strength. If you are finding it difficult to cope, please speak up. Help is available, and you do not have to face this alone,” the institute has said.