Panel to look into affairs at IIIT-Nuzvid

In response to recent reports of students falling ill after consuming stale food at the IIIT-Nuzvid, State Education and IT Minister Nara Lokesh has suspended the institute’s director charging him with negligence. The minister emphasised that measures are being implemented to restore trust among students and their parents at IIIT. As part of these measures, a three-member supervisory committee has been established to oversee the institute’s operations.
The committee will include Pola Bhaskar, Commissioner of Collegiate Education; Rammohan Rao, Chairman in-charge of the Higher Education Department; and K Vetri Selvi, Eluru Collector.
The committee’s responsibilities will include: Ensuring the maintenance of standard operating protocols (SOPs) for food quality and safety. Overseeing the sanitation and cleanliness of the mess facilities. Enhancing sanitation and quality standards in the student hostels. Conducting minor repairs as needed at Nuzvid IIIT.
Establishing an internal grievance committee to address complaints related to sexual harassment, ensuring prompt investigation and action. Implementing an action plan for drug-free and tobacco-free institutions, including setting up mechanisms at each departmental level.
Taking steps to reduce mental stress and promote healthy life skills among students.
Forming a College Wellness Team to support the mental and physical well-being of students, including the Dean of Student Welfare (or equivalent), two senior faculty members (preferably female), student monitors from each department, and representatives from the parents’ association.
The College Wellness Team will also include Institutional Head Supervisors, Counsellors, and Medical Officers, all working together to safeguard vulnerable students.
Minister Lokesh has instructed the committee to develop a time-bound action plan to address immediate issues such as food quality, minor repairs, sensitive matters, and medical supervision. He assured that any untoward incident would be promptly reported to the government for swift resolution.