The Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Christopher Mensah has inaugurated Mind Allies, a pioneering group of Mental Health Peer Counselors and Advocates in the University on Wednesday, April 10, 2024.
Spearheaded by the Guidance and Counseling Office under the Directorate of Career Placement and Counseling (CPC), the initiative aimed to provide emotional and mental health support to students by their peers, while destigmatising mental health issues.
Mr. Sedem Amedome, Counseling Officer and Programme Coordinator, said idea of Mind Allies stems from the concept of peer support, recognising the invaluable role students can play in supporting each other’s mental health.
He highlighted the volunteer nature of group, which will operate within halls of residence and faculties to offer basic mental health support, identify at-risk cases, and facilitate referrals for further assistance.
According to Mr. Amedome, a total of 19 pioneer students made through a rigorous 4-week training programme to become certified Mind Allies, with plans for annual recruitment and monthly refresher training sessions. Beyond their one-on-one services to students, each member of the group is obliged to organise a semesterly event focused on promoting mental wellbeing among their peers, he added.
The Pro-Vice Chancellor in his remarks said inauguration of Mind Allies aligns with the University’s strategic direction of creating a supportive environment conducive to holistic student development.
He underscored the prevalence of mental health challenges among students, particularly during transitional phases like entering tertiary institutions and facing examinations. He commended the initiative for addressing this critical need and entreated the volunteers to maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and trustworthiness as peer counselors.
He further called for the support of all stakeholders to sustain the initiative, which would foster a culture of mental wellbeing and support.
Mr. Edem Honu, the Acting Director of CPC, highlighted the critical role of the programme in breaking barriers and providing essential support to students, as it will bridge the poor ‘student-to-counselor ratio’ in the University. He applauded the volunteers for availing themselves for the initiative and urged them to use the opportunity to acquire the requisite soft skills for the future.
In attendance was the Dean of Students Affairs, Dr. Elizabeth Obinnim, who also threw her support behind the initiative.
