Indian cricket legend Kapil Dev has joined forces with the Australian Government on a new mental health initiative designed to support teachers and students in government schools across Delhi and Uttar Pradesh.
The programme will be delivered through Kapil Dev’s KHUSHII Foundation and forms part of an Australian Government development partnership focused on mental health awareness, wellbeing and inclusive education in school communities.
Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles recently visited the foundation, where discussions centred on mental health, education and opportunities to strengthen cooperation between Australia and India in community development.
Announcing the partnership, Marles said Australia was proud to work with Kapil Dev and his organisation on a programme that aims to support both students and teachers.
The initiative is expected to provide resources and awareness programmes that help schools address mental health challenges while creating more supportive learning environments. It will focus on government schools and local communities in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh.
Kapil Dev welcomed the collaboration and spoke positively about the growing relationship between India and Australia. He thanked Australia for its support of the Indian community and acknowledged the contributions made by Indians living in Australia.
He also highlighted the work of the KHUSHII Foundation, which supports underprivileged children through education and development programmes. Founded in 2003, the organisation works to improve access to quality education, life skills and opportunities for children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Marles praised the foundation’s work and said the partnership reflected the close ties between the two countries. He described India and Australia as increasingly aligned across a range of areas and said it was a privilege to witness the impact of the foundation’s community programmes firsthand.
Mental health has become a growing area of focus in education systems worldwide, with educators and policymakers placing greater attention on student wellbeing and early support measures. Supporters of the initiative say programmes that equip teachers and students with practical tools and awareness can contribute to healthier school environments.
The partnership adds another dimension to the broader Australia-India relationship, combining educational support, community engagement and wellbeing initiatives. Organisers hope the programme will deliver lasting benefits for students, teachers and families while encouraging greater awareness of mental health in school settings.
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