Mind Matters Most: CBSE, AIIMS Expand Project MATE Across Delhi-NCR Schools

On May 9, 2026, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) inaugurated Phase II of Project MATE at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. The initiative builds on the success of the pilot phase launched earlier under CBSE Chairperson Rahul Singh.

Programme Structure

Project MATE is designed by the Department of Psychiatry at AIIMS and integrates classroom-based wellbeing modules, peer-support mechanisms through the MATE-5 Circle, and parent engagement workshops. The program focuses on holistic development, ensuring that academic growth is complemented by emotional resilience and social skills.

Stakeholder Participation

The launch saw participation from principals and counsellors of schools across Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Ghaziabad, and Uttar Pradesh. Institutions such as Suncity School Gurugram, KR Mangalam World School New Delhi, Salwan Public School, and The Knowledge Habitat School Gurugram shared their experiences from the pilot phase.

Recognition And Expansion

A segment titled “Stories of Strength” showcased innovative wellbeing practices adopted by pilot schools. Top-performing schools and counsellors were recognized, with select counsellors designated as Master Trainers to mentor others during Phase II. A Board of Advisors from AIIMS has been constituted to provide academic and clinical guidance for evidence-based expansion.

Key Highlights

•⁠  ⁠CBSE and AIIMS launch Phase II of Project MATE on May 9, 2026

•⁠  ⁠Initiative targets adolescent wellbeing in over 60 Delhi-NCR schools

•⁠  ⁠Modules include classroom wellbeing, peer-support circles, and parent workshops

•⁠  ⁠Pilot schools like Suncity, KR Mangalam, and Salwan Public School recognized

•⁠  ⁠Counsellors named Master Trainers to mentor Phase II implementation

•⁠  ⁠AIIMS Board of Advisors to guide programme expansion

Sources: The Week, MSN, Devdiscourse