ReCAPS

ReCAPS, a flagship initiative under the Peer Training Wing of the Centre for Academic and Professional Support (CAPS), continues to be one of the most impactful academic support programs at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Pune Lavasa Campus. Designed to promote collaborative and experiential learning, ReCAPS provides a platform where students learn with and from each other, fostering both academic excellence and community spirit.

The recent cycle of ReCAPS commenced on 15th October 2025, strategically aligning with the mid-semester examination phase. The initiative was created to assist students through revision-based peer-led sessions, where learning became more approachable, relatable, and enjoyable. By promoting the idea of “students helping students,” the program created a safe, comfortable, and empowering environment for learners to revisit challenging concepts and strengthen their understanding.

Recognizing that students often grasp concepts better when explained by peers who have recently navigated similar academic challenges, the ReCAPS sessions were designed to be informal yet impactful. Unlike traditional classroom settings, these sessions emphasized dialogue over lectures, curiosity over rote memorization, and collective understanding over individual competition. The mentors—senior students from diverse disciplines—volunteered their time and effort to guide their juniors with empathy, patience, and practical insight. Having experienced the same coursework and examinations, they were well-positioned to offer effective study strategies, simplify complex topics, and instill confidence among mentees.

This cycle of ReCAPS witnessed the participation of 21 mentees and 14 trained mentors representing various schools and disciplines across the campus, including BBA, BCA, BADS, and Law. The diversity of participants reflected the program’s inclusivity and broad academic relevance. Each mentor adopted unique teaching methods tailored to their group’s learning preferences—ranging from interactive discussions and quick quizzes to practical examples and collaborative problem-solving tasks. These approaches ensured that the sessions were not only academically productive but also engaging and motivating.

Beyond academic reinforcement, ReCAPS nurtures essential interpersonal and leadership skills. Mentors developed greater confidence, communication skills, and a sense of responsibility, while mentees benefited from enhanced understanding, reduced exam anxiety, and a stronger sense of academic preparedness. Feedback from participants revealed that they found the sessions highly beneficial, citing improved conceptual clarity and a boost in morale before examinations.

One of the defining aspects of ReCAPS is its ability to build a positive academic culture within the campus. It cultivates values of teamwork, mutual support, and shared accountability, reinforcing the belief that education thrives best within a collaborative environment. By creating a space where students feel heard, supported, and motivated, ReCAPS contributes significantly to fostering academic well-being and emotional resilience.

Furthermore, the initiative offers CAPS meaningful insights into evolving student learning patterns, subject-specific challenges, and mentorship effectiveness. These observations inform the planning of future academic support programs, ensuring continued innovation and relevance. ReCAPS also helps strengthen peer relationships, particularly for first-year students who find in their mentors both academic guides and approachable friends.

In essence, ReCAPS embodies the spirit of community-driven learning at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Pune Lavasa Campus. By merging academic support with emotional connection, it continues to uphold CAPS’ mission of nurturing confident, compassionate, and competent learners—learning together, and growing together.