In an effort to build safer and more inclusive educational environments, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has taken a significant step by designating 12th August as Anti-Ragging Day. This will be followed by Anti-Ragging Week from 12th to 18th August, beginning from the year 2023. The initiative is designed to increase awareness about the harmful effects of ragging and to promote a culture of respect, empathy, and safety across all Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) in India.
Ragging, once seen as a ‘rite of passage’, has now been rightfully recognized as a severe violation of student rights and mental well-being. UGC’s Anti-Ragging measures, underpinned by legal and educational frameworks, aim to eradicate such practices entirely. The observance of Anti-Ragging Week is more than a formality—it is a call to action for every institution, educator, and student to actively participate in creating safer spaces for learning.
Activities and Engagements During Anti-Ragging Week
To ensure the campaign’s impact reaches every corner of educational institutions, the UGC has recommended a series of activities that colleges and universities are expected to implement during Anti-Ragging Day and Week:
Inaugural Ceremonies: The week should begin with a formal launch to mark the significance of the event. Inviting local dignitaries, alumni, and student leaders to speak about the importance of ragging-free campuses can set the tone.
Creative Competitions: Institutions are encouraged to organize a wide range of competitions—slogan writing, essay contests, poster making, logo designing, street plays, photography, debates, and quiz contests. These not only engage students creatively but also help internalize the anti-ragging message. Recognition through certificates and prizes will further motivate participation.
Social Media Campaigns: In today’s digital world, online presence matters. Institutions should share activity posts, videos, and messages from their heads and faculty through social media and official websites to reach wider audiences. These efforts help extend awareness beyond campus walls.
Interactive Awareness Programs: Hosting workshops, seminars, and interactive sessions allows students to openly discuss issues related to ragging, mental health, and campus safety. Innovative ideas like setting up selfie corners with anti-ragging slogans can also be a fun yet impactful way to raise awareness.
National Digital Contest 2025: Students should be encouraged to take part in the National Contest on Digital Posters, Reels, and Short Videos, an initiative that enables them to creatively communicate the anti-ragging message on a national platform. Detailed contest information can be found at www.antiragging.in.
Screening of Awareness Films: Short films and TV commercials available on the UGC’s anti-ragging website should be screened for students and faculty to visually convey the emotional and legal consequences of ragging.
Dissemination of Advisory: Finally, institutions must ensure that this advisory is shared with all colleges under their jurisdiction, encouraging a uniform and enthusiastic celebration across all regions.
Conclusion
The UGC’s Anti-Ragging Week is more than an annual observance; it is a powerful reminder of the shared responsibility to foster environments where every student feels safe, valued, and respected. Let this week not be the end, but the beginning of sustained efforts toward building a compassionate academic culture.