In response to rising mental health challenges among Kenyan youth, Egerton University took a proactive step by organizing a Mental Health Training on 11th November, 2023, a collaborative effort between the Growing Up and Liking It (GULI) student organization and Generation Mental Health (GenMH). The event aimed to address the pressing issue of mental health among university students, fostering awareness, and encouraging a proactive mental health care-seeking attitude.
Kenya, ranked fifth in Africa for elevated depression cases by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2017, faces a significant mental health crisis, especially among the youth. The training, attended by Egerton University students, focused on enlightening participants about mental health care, engaging in advocacy, and implementing preventive strategies.
To kick off the training, GULI’s Patron, Prof. Charles M. M’Erimba who also doubles as the Director, Directorate Linkages & Collaborations introduced the guest speakers as well as the students by faculties. He took the participants through the roles and the mandate of the Directorate.
The diverse topics covered included Mental Health Literacy, Sexual Harassment and its Implications on Mental Health, Contraception among the Youth, and the Effects of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) on Mental Health, expertly presented by professionals such as Dr David Njeru, Dr Justus Nondi, Ms Rachael Muthoni, and Mr Kevin Karuga.
Ms Glory Gakii Mwithali, founder of GULI, outlined the organization's vision and mission, emphasizing its commitment to raising awareness, destigmatizing mental health issues, and providing affordable access to professional mental health services.
GenMH, represented by Ms Jacklyn Schess, demonstrated its dedication to building a generation of mental health leaders. The organization empowers young people with lived experience to lead mental health initiatives, research, and advocacy.
The feedback from participants highlighted the success of the training, with the majority expressing satisfaction with the content, delivery, and organization of the event. Students appreciated the engaging presentations, the inclusion of Kenyan Sign Language, and the insightful videos.
Despite the success, challenges were noted, including a shortage of materials and time constraints. Participants suggested future topics for consideration, such as sexual and gender-based violence, depression and suicide, financial literacy, and emotional intelligence.
Looking ahead, the GULI team expressed a commitment to holding more training sessions, establishing safe spaces within the university's healthcare settings, and exploring telehealth services for students. The collaborative efforts of GULI and GenMH, along with the positive feedback and valuable suggestions, indicate a promising path forward in addressing mental health concerns at Egerton University. The event's success underscores the need for continued support and partnerships to create a healthier and more resilient student community.
