Rekhi Foundation partners with IIT Madras to launch Centre for Science of Happiness

The Rekhi Foundation for Happiness, a non-profit organization, has partnered with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) to establish the "Rekhi Centre of Excellence for the Science of Happiness."

This center will focus on several areas, including integrating happiness studies into the academic curriculum, and will be established within the Department of Management Studies (DoMS) at IIT Madras.

Recognizing the importance of happiness for holistic learning and personal development, IIT Madras is promoting research and education in this field with this initiative.

The center's main goal will be to create and offer courses that help students lead purposeful lives, build emotional resilience, and nurture happiness.

Additionally, a dedicated Mind Lab, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, will offer experiential learning opportunities to enhance practical understanding and application.

Dr Satinder Singh Rekhi, founder of the Rekhi Foundation for Happiness, and Professor Manu Santhanam, Dean (IC&SR) of IIT Madras, signed an agreement on March 24 in the presence of Professor V Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras; DoMS faculty members; Professor M Thenmozhi, Head of the Department; Professor Rupashree Baral; Professor Srinivasan S; and other stakeholders.

Speaking at the MoU signing event, Professor V Kamakoti emphasized that "the objective of this initiative should be to cultivate an ideal student-faculty environment, reinforcing the idea that true learning and holistic personal growth extend beyond academic scores."

Dr Rekhi elaborated on the need for such collaboration, stating, "Happy people are more successful," reaffirming his belief that happiness can enhance performance in any field.

He also addressed the concept of the "Monkey Brain," a restless, anxious mindset that leads to stress and dissatisfaction.

The Rekhi Centre for the Science of Happiness aims to employ both philosophical and scientific methods to better understand and promote happiness through research, education, and outreach initiatives.

This partnership is expected to foster innovative approaches to enhance the overall growth and well-being of the campus community and beyond.

"Through this partnership, IIT Madras is taking yet another step in redefining education, placing equal emphasis on knowledge and well-being," the statement reads.

Through the creation of happiness centers at universities worldwide and promoting well-being through research, teaching, and practical applications, the Rekhi Foundation for Happiness seeks to advance the field of happiness science and positive psychology.