The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) is going to launch a nationwide initiative for the mental health and emotional well-being of students. CISCE Student Mental Health and Wellbeing Conference 2026 will engage around 1.6 lakh students from class VI to XII, over 32 thousand teachers and over 3,300 affiliated schools. The initiative aims not only to raise awareness about mental health, but also to incorporate students’ views into school-related policies and make better recommendations. The event will be organized around World Mental Health Day.

Mental health dialogue will be held at school level

The first phase of the initiative will run from 4 to 31 October 2026. During this period, weekly class discussions will be organized with students in CISCE affiliated schools. Topics like student stress and study pressure, emotional health, digital life and positive relationships will be discussed.

In addition, issues such as avoiding drugs and narcotics, making healthy choices, developing resilience and asking for help when needed will also be discussed. Students’ experiences and suggestions will be recorded through these discussions.

Virtual conference will be held in 18 areas

In the second phase, virtual regional student mental health and wellness conferences will be held from 4 to 14 November 2026 in 18 regions. In this, selected student representatives and teachers will review the ideas expressed at the school level. After this, the participants will be selected for the National Conference on the basis of eligibility.

National Conference in Hyderabad

The final phase of the initiative will be held from 20 to 22 November 2026 at the CISCE Center of Excellence, Hyderabad. It will consist of 72 students and 18 teacher mentors from 18 areas. He will be accompanied by mental health and policy experts, CISCE officials and representatives of partner institutions.

A Student Mental Health Charter will be prepared

Following the National Conference, the CISCE Student Mental Health Charter, Student Welfare Index and Compendium of Best School Practices will be prepared. A white paper on emerging challenges related to adolescent mental health will also be prepared. CISCE may also consider continuing this event as a biennial event in the future.