The tragic incident of a girl student’s suicide at KIIT University and the subsequent unrest in the eastern part of the county has underscored the importance refining administrative frameworks.
Students should have access to channels for voicing concerns and those grievances must be addressed with sensitivity and fairness.
The unfortunate incident at KIIT University and Ashoka University has led to grief and calls for reform, it also provides an opportunity to reflect on the broader responsibilities of universities in ensuring student well-being.
Universities should ensure that the decision-making processes are transparent and always aligned with the best interests of students.
Educational institutions must anticipate and mitigate risks related to student safety, mental health and campus security.
Unlike corporations that are regulated by external bodies such as the RBI or SEBI, universities operate with greater autonomy, making it essential for them to self-regulate through well-defined governance structures.
To achieve this, universities across India could benefit from adopting the best practices from corporate governance, while still preserving the unique ethos of academia. One effective approach is to establish independent oversight committees comprising of individuals with diverse expertise. Such measures can help ensure greater accountability while preventing insular decision-making.
KIIT’s existing governance framework can be further strengthened through periodic reviews and external assessments, ensuring that it remains aligned with the best global practices.
Additionally, standardised policies for handling student grievances and disciplinary matters must be clearly defined and easily accessible.
Regular audits—covering not just financial aspects but also student welfare, academic quality, and campus climate—are crucial for ensuring that governance remain effective.
KIIT University, with its long-standing commitment to student welfare, can take this as an opportunity to lead the way in setting higher standards for governance in Indian education. By refining policies, enhancing oversight, and reinforcing its student-first approach, KIIT can further solidify its reputation as a forward-thinking institution that prioritises both academic excellence and student well-being.
Satyadeep Mishra, parent of a KIITian and Senior HR Leader, said while KIIT University is a progressive and matured university, the first generation institutions always grapple with balancing growth versus process orientation.
In hindsight, this is an opportunity for KIIT to evolve and streamline certain processes, he said.