REGISTER | Print Page | Contact Us | Your Cart | Sign In
Youth Services — Adhoc

Student Guidance

To create a welcoming and well-connected Jain student support ecosystem across North America where every incoming student feels guided, included, and rooted in Jain principles from the beginning of their journey.

Core Mission

To support Jain students arriving in the USA and Canada by providing timely guidance, community connection, and practical assistance, ensuring a smooth transition while preserving Jain values, traditions, and identity.

Committee Description

The JAINA Student Guidance Committee (JSGC) is established to assist approximately 1,000 Jain students annually who come to North America for higher education, as well as Jain students already residing within the region. Operating under the guiding principle of “Main Hoon Na”, the committee provides structured support to help students transition successfully into academic and social life while staying connected to Jain values and the broader community. The committee will facilitate mentorship, guidance, and community engagement by connecting students with local Jain centers, guiding families, and regional coordinators. It will also focus on expanding outreach through improved digital platforms, increased regional leadership presence, and a stronger network of guiding families. By fostering early engagement, the committee strengthens JAINA membership, enhances student well-being, and ensures long-term community integration.

Roles & Responsibilities

  • Chairperson: Provide strategic leadership, oversee student support initiatives, and ensure alignment with JAINA’s mission of service and community building.
  • Student Onboarding & Guidance Lead: Assist incoming students with initial orientation, resources, and community integration.
  • Regional Directors (USA & Canada): Coordinate student support at regional levels and connect students with local Jain centers and families.
  • Guiding Family Coordinator: Recruit, train, and manage guiding families to support students in their local communities.
  • Website & Digital Platform Lead: Improve and maintain the JSGC website (jsgc.jaina.org) for accessibility, information, and student engagement.
  • Student Outreach & Registration Lead: Ensure student registration, maintain database, and increase participation and awareness.
  • Community Engagement Lead: Connect students with Jain centers, events, and cultural activities to strengthen belonging and participation.
  • Mentorship & Support Coordinator: Match students with mentors for academic, emotional, and cultural guidance.
  • Communications Lead: Manage outreach, messaging, and communication between students, families, and JAINA.
  • Impact & Growth Analyst: Track registrations, engagement metrics, regional expansion, and program effectiveness to guide growth.

Leadership

PD
Pallavi Dedhia
Chair
Chair
Yogesh Bapna
Yogesh Bapna
West Regional VP
EC Liaison

Get Involved

Connect with the Student Guidance Committee. We welcome your expertise, ideas, and partnership to further our initiatives.