In a concerted effort to shed light on mental health issues, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Kaduna collaborated with the Mental Space Foundation Africa (MSFA) and Global Insight to organize a comprehensive one-day workshop aimed at students in Kaduna. The workshop, which took place at the prestigious Jam’iyyar Matan Arewa Hall, welcomed students from various educational levels, including primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions from across the state.
Setting the tone for the event, Barrister Olufunke Abosede, the Chairperson of FIDA Kaduna, highlighted the critical importance of mental health education. She stressed that mental well-being is not just an individual concern but a societal issue that impacts individuals of all ages.
“We are here today to educate students about mental health because it is something that affects everyone. By raising awareness, we can provide better support for students, teachers, parents, and society at large,”
remarked Barrister Abosede.
Under the theme
“Healthy Mind, Brighter Future,”
the workshop delved into the escalating challenges faced by young people in terms of mental health. Issues such as anxiety, depression, and trauma were explored in-depth—conditions often exacerbated by academic stressors, societal pressures, and economic struggles.
Experts emphasized that early exposure to mental health education equips students with valuable insights to identify warning signs proactively seek assistance without fear or shame and comprehend available avenues of support.
Barrister Abosede further reiterated this point stating:
“Mental health education plays a crucial role in diminishing stigma surrounding mental health issues while empowering students to prioritize their emotional well-being.”
Adding her perspective during the event was Dania Sharon from Mental Space Foundation Africa who shared insights into her organization’s initiatives aimed at propagating mental health awareness within schools and communities across Africa.
“Our primary objective is destigmatizing seeking help concerning mental health matters. We strive to raise consciousness while aligning our efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals focusing on good health and overall well-being,”
explained Sharon.
She elaborated on how their foundation remains dedicated to educating youths and providing resources geared towards enhancing improved mental wellness throughout Africa—specifically targeting teenagers and young adults.
A clinical psychologist also had a pivotal role during this enlightening session as he underscored the interconnectedness between mental health status and general well-being among individuals. He advocated for schools to establish pathways for professional support access even within resource-constrained environments through forging partnerships with entities specializing in mental healthcare provision.
The workshop culminated in an interactive segment where participating students had opportunities to share personal anecdotes while learning hands-on strategies essential for nurturing their mental wellness journey.
