Bhubaneswar, Odisha – In response to the tragic death of Prakriti Lamsal, a student at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), the Odisha Higher Education Department has launched a 24/7 help desk to support affected students and their families. This initiative aims to ensure student safety, facilitate their return, and safeguard academic interests.
KIIT University OdishaGovernment’s Response to KIIT Student Tragedy
The Higher Education Department has acted swiftly by establishing a round-the-clock help desk to provide guidance, emotional support, and logistical assistance.
According to an official order, Sri Kali Prasanna Mohapatra, IAS, Director of Higher Education, has been appointed as the Nodal Officer, assisted by Dr. Rajata Manasingh, Deputy Director. A nine-member team has been assigned to manage operations, ensuring effective communication and timely assistance.
Objectives of the Help Desk
The help desk serves multiple crucial functions:
Ensuring Student Safety: Providing security and assistance to KIIT students facing challenges due to the incident.
Facilitating Student Return: Offering guidance to students who have left campus and wish to return.
Providing Emotional & Mental Health Support: Connecting students with counseling and psychological services.
Addressing Academic Concerns: Assisting students facing difficulties in continuing their education.
How to Seek Assistance
The Odisha Higher Education Department has provided multiple helpline numbers and a dedicated WhatsApp number for easy access to support.
Contact Details for KIIT Help Desk:
Helpline Numbers:
📞 0674-2396550
📞 0674-2323401
📞 0674-2323402
📞 0674-2323403
WhatsApp Support:
📱 9124620605
Students and parents are encouraged to reach out immediately for assistance.
Government’s Commitment to Student Welfare
The Odisha government has expressed its condolences and reaffirmed its commitment to student safety. A senior Higher Education Department official stated:
"The safety and well-being of students remain our top priority. Our dedicated team is working tirelessly to assist them in every possible way."
Reactions from Students and Parents
The initiative has been widely appreciated. A KIIT student remarked:
"It is reassuring to know that the government has stepped in to support us. The availability of helplines and WhatsApp contact makes seeking help much easier."
Parents have also welcomed the move, emphasizing the importance of a direct communication channel with authorities. One concerned parent shared:
"As a parent, I was extremely worried after hearing about the incident. Knowing that there is now an official help desk provides peace of mind."
Importance of Mental Health Support
Following this tragic event, mental health has become a major concern. Experts emphasize the need for accessible counseling services. While primarily focused on logistical and academic support, the 24/7 help desk is expected to play a vital role in directing students toward mental health resources.
Conclusion
The Odisha government’s swift response in launching a 24/7 help desk highlights its dedication to student safety, academic stability, and mental well-being. With a dedicated team managing the helpline and WhatsApp support, students and parents now have an official resource for guidance and assistance.
As the help desk becomes fully operational, it is expected to provide crucial support, ensuring students can continue their academic journey with confidence.
For any assistance, students and parents are encouraged to reach out via the helpline numbers or WhatsApp to receive timely support and guidance.
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