Gandhinagar, November 2 (APAC Media): The Gujarat government has introduced new regulations making mental health support and suicide prevention measures mandatory in secondary and higher secondary schools, placing student well-being alongside academic development.
The provisions, incorporated under Regulation 16(A) of the Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Regulations, 1974, will apply to schools affiliated with the Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board (GSHSEB) offering Classes 9 to 12.
School Wellness Teams Made Mandatory
Under the new framework, every eligible school must establish a School Wellness Team at the beginning of each academic year.
Headed by the school principal, the team will identify signs of emotional distress, support students and coordinate timely intervention in cases of mental health concerns.
The initiative also introduces student peer supporters called ‘Mano-Mitra’, who will provide initial emotional support to classmates and guide those needing help towards teachers, counsellors or other support services.
Counsellors and Professional Support
Schools with 100 or more students will be required to appoint at least one qualified counsellor, psychologist or social worker trained in child and adolescent mental health.
Institutions with fewer than 100 students must establish referral arrangements with external mental health professionals, nearby health centres, the District Mental Health Programme and Tele-MANAS services.
The regulations also call for additional mentoring and counselling during stressful periods, including board examinations, result announcements and transitions between school stages.
Focus on a Supportive School Environment
Schools will be required to train teaching and non-teaching staff in mental health support at least twice a year. The framework also seeks to prevent academic discrimination, public humiliation, bullying and cyberbullying.
A district-level monitoring committee, headed by the District Collector, will oversee implementation and review complaints and serious incidents.
The measures aim to create a safer and more supportive learning environment where students can seek help without fear or stigma.
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