Saathi Support Programme
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
ABOUT SAATHI SUPPORT
What is the Saathi Support Programme?
We are testing the Saathi Support Programme using a type of study called a randomised controlled trial (RCT). This means participants will be assigned at random to one of three different groups (like flipping a coin). Participants assigned to each group will meet 1:1 with a Saathi for the same amount of time. The only difference is that the Saathis will use a different coping approach in each group, as follows:
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Group 1: Problem solving - focuses on breaking down problems and choosing practical solutions.
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Group 2: Behavioural activation - focuses on becoming more active and involved in positive activities.
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Group 3: Study skills - focuses on building effective habits for learning and studying.
A similar number of students will therefore get to try each of the approaches. This means we can make balanced comparisons between different versions of the Saathi Support Programme, and get more meaningful results.
Is Saathi Support a replacement for professional counselling or therapy?
No. The Saathi Support programme is designed to be an early intervention for university students struggling with low mood and life difficulties and it is not a professional treatment for depression. Getting support from a professional counsellor or psychologist can at times be challenging due to several reasons like financial constraints, not finding the "right" counsellor who understands problems of young people or lack of availability of psychologists/counsellors. The Saathi Support programme aims to increase access to youth-friendly, brief and affordable psychological support and not act as a replacement when professional support might be essential.
What will be the responsibilities of a Saathi in the Saathi Support programme?
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Complete a two-week comprehensive training during semester breaks.
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Consistently demonstrate competency in the techniques learned during training.
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Provide one-on-one support to up to 3 students during the semester, using techniques learned in training.
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Document meetings conducted with students using the provided templates.
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Join weekly supervision sessions with program psychologists and other Saathis. Participate in half-day refresher training as needed.
How long will a student be expected to serve as a Saathi?
A student will be expected to serve as a Saathi for a minimum of one semester. Post this, the student will be given a choice to continue as Saathi for the following semester as well, based on their interest and performance.
Do I need to recruit my own students?
No, you do not need to recruit your own students. You will be required to provide one-on-one support to up to 3 assigned students at any given point of time.
What kind of support and training will the Saathis receive?
Saathis will receive comprehensive training to develop the skills necessary to effectively support fellow university students. The training will focus on learning core skills needed for peer support along with one specific psychological approach - problem solving, behaviour activation or study skills.
To reinforce these skills, monthly refresher training sessions will be organized. Additionally, saathis will have access to ongoing support through weekly supervision, which will include individual and group supervision meetings with other saathis and programme psychologists.
Who will be my supervisor?
Your supervisor will be a trained psychologist who has experience in providing support and guidance to peer supporters. They will help you through regular supervision sessions, offering feedback, addressing challenges, and ensuring you feel confident and supported in your role.
ELIGIBILITY AND PARTICIPATION
Who is eligible to participate as a Saathi in the Saathi Support Programme?
The eligibility criteria for participation are listed below: -
- Enrolled in a regular undergraduate (1st/2nd/3rd continuing into 4th), postgraduate (1st), or doctoral program (only applicants in the age bracket of 18-24 years) at a participating college (please refer to the list of colleges towards the end of the survey) in Delhi NCR until at least July 2027.
- Currently living in Delhi/NCR and residing in Delhi/NCR until at least July 2027.
- Are at least 18 years old and no more than 24 years old.
- Able to attend a mandatory 40-hour (approximately 2 weeks) training programme, followed by a 10-hour role-play assessment, during breaks/evenings/weekends between June to July 2026. [The entire duration of the training will be 2-weeks. This is a tentative timeline and prior notification will be shared before the actual training session.]
- Able to commit upto 8 hours per week to support peers, document sessions and attend supervision meetings during the semester.
- Ready to serve for at least one academic semester (August-December 2026), with the option to extend up to two, based on performance and intent.
Applicants graduating (passing out) in June or July 2026 are not eligible and should not apply.
Which colleges are participating in the Saathi Support Programme?
The participating colleges are as follows: OP Jindal Global University, Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar College, Ramanujan College, Hindu College, Vivekananda College, Sri Venkateswara College and Jamia Millia Islamia.
Do I need to have some knowledge related to the field of psychology?
No prior knowledge or special skills in psychology are required to apply. The programme is designed to provide you with all the necessary training and support to succeed in your role.
Is the programme conducted online or in-person?
The mode of the sessions is flexible, and both the Saathi and the student can decide whether to conduct them online or in person, depending on what works best for everyone involved.
Are there any incentives for participating in the programme (e.g., certificates)?
As a Saathi, you will receive a stipend as compensation for your time and effort, along with a certificate upon successful completion of the programme, which can be a great addition to your resume.
Can non-psychology students apply for the role of Saathi?
Absolutely! Students from all academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply. The programme values diverse perspectives and welcomes individuals from various fields of study to contribute to the initiative.
Can I provide counselling to other students outside of the programme? Or will the certification allow me to become a counsellor?
Receiving training and a certificate for being a Saathi in this programme does not certify that you have become a counsellor; however, becoming a Saathi may serve as valuable experience that can be listed in your CV and could be helpful if you decide to pursue a formal career in Psychology or counselling in the future. Additional professional experience and degrees are required to successfully practice as a Psychologist or counsellor.
Can a Metropolis Campus Ambassador (MCA) apply for the role of a Saathi?
Due to the time commitment required for each role, we recommend applying for one position at a time. In case you are a MCA for the current semester, please apply for the Saathi role in the next semester cycle.
TIME COMMITMENT AS A SAATHI
How long is the training, and what is the mode of delivery?
The training will be hybrid, lasting two weeks, and will take place during December-March 2026. It will be a 40-hour (approximately 2 weeks) training programme, followed by a 10-hour role-play assessment, during breaks/evenings/weekends.
How much time commitment is required for this role?
The role requires a commitment of up to 8 hours per week. This can be distributed across several days, depending on your availability and how you choose to structure your time.
Can I manage this role alongside my academic commitments?
The role requires a commitment of up to 8 hours per week, which is manageable alongside academic responsibilities. The programme is designed to be flexible, allowing you to balance both your studies and your volunteering.
Will I need to continue the role during exam periods?
Continuing the role during exam periods is entirely optional. You can choose to take a break from the role during this time to focus on your exams if necessary and can keep your respective supervisors informed.
How much is the monthly stipend, and how will I receive it?
You will receive a monthly stipend, but the exact amount and payment method will be shared with you during the selection process.
CONTACT DETAILS
Who can I contact for more information?
You can write to teammetropolisjgu@gmail.com. Please mention' Saathi role Inquiry' in the subject line.
CLICK HERE TO BEGIN YOUR APPLICATION: Saathi Support application form