The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi will hold classes with fewer students to encourage individual attention and reduce the number of credits from core subjects, easing pressure on students, particularly those in their first year, the institute said on Tuesday.

The changes, part of the first curriculum revision since 2013, come against the backdrop of five IIT-D students taking the extreme step over the last two years, following which, a committee was constituted to look into the students’ well-being.

“The committee had recommended reducing competitiveness and stress on marks, enhancing the connection between students and faculty. We are working on sensitising the faculty and building the connection,” said IIT-Delhi Director Rangan Banerjee.

From July, the classes for the first year will have a maximum strength of 150 students. Currently, the class strength varies from 300 to 600 students.

Narayanan Karur, Dean of Academics, said the decision to reduce class strength was taken as many mental health problems were found to be stemming from issues in transitioning from school or coaching classes to college, where students learn independently. 

The credits for core components vary across subjects. More credits have now been allotted to the laboratory component to encourage hands-on learning and interaction between faculty and students.

Shouri Chatterjee, Associate Dean of Curriculum, said the curriculum had been revised following feedback from students, faculty, and alumni. 

Those in distress may contact Sanjivini, Society for Mental Health suicide prevention helpline 011-40769002.