Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Unveils “QS I-GAUGE Institution of Happiness Report 2024”

By India Education Diary Bureau Admin On Nov 15, 2024

Highlights the Critical Role of Mental Health in Education
Survey of Over 180,000 Students and Faculty Reveals Inclusivity, Safety, and Career Guidance as Key Drivers of Happiness

Bengaluru : Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar today unveiled the “QS I-GAUGE Institution of Happiness Report 2024,” which provides a detailed analysis of the key factors influencing happiness, mental health, and well-being within academic environments. This extensive survey, one of the largest of its kind, gathered responses from 160,710 students and 20,768 faculty members across 108 educational institutions in 16 states and 1 Union Territory in India.

QS I-GAUGE is India’s leading education rating and assessment platform. The Institution of Happiness Survey 2024 explores various dimensions of well-being, equipping educational institutions with actionable insights to foster positive, inclusive, and supportive environments for both students and faculty.

While releasing the report, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said:
“Education is not just about imparting knowledge, but about nurturing joy, resilience, and compassion. By fostering emotional well-being and mindful growth, institutions can create a culture that supports not only the intellect but also the heart and soul of every student and educator.”

The report reveals that a strong sense of belonging, and inclusivity significantly enhances happiness among students and faculty. Educational institutions where individuals feel connected and included tend to report higher overall well-being. However, the survey highlights the need for targeted measures to support those who may feel isolated or disconnected. Establishing mentorship programs and cultural affinity groups can effectively create a more inclusive atmosphere, encouraging broader participation and engagement.

Mr. Ravin Nair, Managing Director of QS I-GAUGE, commented on the findings:
“Our goal with this report is to inspire change in the education sector. By prioritising mental health and fostering a culture of happiness, institutions can create a more conducive environment for both academic and personal growth.”

Key Highlights from the QS I-GAUGE Institution of Happiness Report 2024:

Happy Teachers, Happy Students: Students feel more motivated when they see their teachers’ happy and positive demeanors.
Safety Equals Satisfaction: A strong sense of safety on campus significantly boosts student and faculty satisfaction levels.
Inclusivity Drives Happiness: Students and faculty who feel included and connected are notably happier and more engaged.
Mental Health Matters: Greater access to mental health resources can alleviate stress and enhance overall happiness.
Career Guidance Boosts Confidence: Tailored career support and industry exposure significantly improve students’ confidence in their future.
Faculty Well-being: Opportunities for continuous professional development are essential for educator satisfaction and retention.
Importance of Feedback: Establishing anonymous feedback channels encourages open communication and trust within institutions.
Social Emotional Learning: Prioritising social-emotional learning contributes to a more compassionate and inclusive academic environment.

Safety within educational environments emerged as a critical factor in promoting well-being and institutional loyalty. The findings indicate that both students and educators place a high value on feeling secure within their institutions. Addressing minor safety gaps could further enhance trust and comfort on campuses.

Access to mental health resources was identified as a key driver of happiness. The survey highlights the importance of making mental health services more visible and accessible, particularly for underserved groups. Recommendations include extending service hours, implementing peer-led support initiatives, and launching awareness campaigns to reduce stigma. Enhancing these resources can better support the emotional resilience of academic communities.

Career readiness plays a significant role in student satisfaction. The report emphasises that students who receive tailored career guidance and specialised industry exposure tend to have higher confidence and are better prepared for their professional journeys. Strengthening career services through industry partnerships, early internship opportunities, and clearer career pathways can enhance student engagement and future success.

Faculty well-being is closely tied to opportunities for professional growth. The survey shows that educators with access to continuous professional development, mentorship programs, and a fair working environment report higher job satisfaction. These factors contribute to fostering a positive institutional culture and retaining talented educators, ultimately benefiting the student experience.

“The QS I-GAUGE Institution of Happiness Report 2024 is a pioneering effort to understand the dynamics of happiness within Indian educational institutions. By analysing responses from over 180,000 participants, we have uncovered critical insights that can help schools, colleges, and universities create more nurturing and fulfilling environments. This report is a call to action for educational leaders to prioritise the well-being of their students and staff,” added Mr. Nair.

The report also provides actionable recommendations for educational institutions to enhance happiness and well-being on their campuses. Key suggestions include establishing anonymous feedback channels, promoting social inclusion through diverse events, and ensuring consistent teacher availability for student support.

Dr. Ashwin Fernandes, Executive Director (AMESA) at QS Quacquarelli Symonds, concluded “The QS I-GAUGE Institution of Happiness Report 2024 is set to become a benchmark for educational institutions looking to improve their approach to mental health and well-being. It serves as a comprehensive guide for schools, colleges, and universities to implement effective strategies that prioritise the happiness of their communities.”