Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Higher Education Department is set to launch a ‘Safe Campaign’ in all colleges and universities statewide to tackle the increasing suicide rates among young people.
Speaking to the media, Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said that the initiative, under the Shaktishree scheme, will promote mental well-being among students and prevent them from taking extreme steps in challenging times.
“The campaign will include campus awareness programmes to educate students on emotional resilience and seek support when in stress. It will also foster a supportive environment, encouraging peers, teachers, and parents to help those in distress,” he said.
The Minister emphasised, “If someone is struggling or is upset, they should receive counselling and be guided to appropriate resources for resolution.”
This came a day after local police department organised a programme on the prevention of self-immolation at FM College in Balasore, where a 20-year-old student in Balasore district set herself on fire on July 12 over alleged sexual harassment by a professor and institutional neglect. The programme, an initiative of DIG Eastern Range, Dr. Satyajit Naik, provided a platform for open discussions and awareness on mental health issues. It highlighted the importance of seeking help and support during difficult times, fostering a community that values mental health and well-being.
Northern Range Police has also launched an awareness programme across colleges in Sambalpur, Bargarh, Bolangir, Jharsuguda, and Sonepur to sensitise female students on suicide and self-immolation prevention. The campaign includes interactive sessions, counselling workshops, expert talks, and information on helplines.