What is Igniting Minds?

Igniting Minds is MHITR's mental wellness and life skills program for students aged 12 to 24. It teaches the emotional and practical skills that a school timetable rarely has room for: handling pressure, understanding emotions, communicating clearly and using technology sensibly.

Sessions are facilitator-led and held in person on campus, using activities, discussion and practice rather than lectures. The curriculum follows the WHO life-skills framework and the priorities of NEP 2020.

Who is the program for?

The program is delivered through institutions. Parents who would like it for their child can ask their school to partner with us.

  • School students from around age 12, through middle and senior school
  • College students and young adults up to 24
  • Students at coaching institutes preparing for competitive examinations
  • Schools, colleges, NGOs and CSR teams that want a structured student wellness program on campus

What students learn

Each module builds a skill students can use the same week, at school, at home and online.

Student mental wellness

Understanding stress, mood and energy, and knowing when and how to ask for help. Read more on teen mental health.

Academic stress management

Practical ways to handle study pressure and exam nerves before they affect sleep and confidence. See our guide to exam pressure on teenagers.

Emotional intelligence

Naming emotions, managing anger and frustration, and responding to other people with empathy.

Communication skills

Listening, expressing disagreement respectfully and talking more openly with parents, teachers and friends.

Confidence building

Replacing self-doubt and fear of failure with a steadier sense of ability, including the habit of positive self-talk.

How the program works

Schools that are still preparing their own staff may also find our articles on school counselling useful.

  • Your school or college gets in touch and we agree goals, age groups and a format that fits the academic calendar.
  • Trained facilitators run interactive sessions on campus as workshops, weekly modules or intensives, in English and Hindi.
  • Students receive handouts and home practice activities so that skills carry over between sessions.
  • Schools receive feedback and impact reports to see how students are progressing.

Benefits for students and parents

  • For students: better focus, steadier emotions under pressure and more confidence in speaking up.
  • For students: healthier habits around screens, sleep and study.
  • For parents: regular updates and home practice tools, so you know what your child is working on.
  • For parents: calmer, more open conversations at home, especially around exams.