15 Dec
In 2023, the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC), in collaboration with Makerere University stakeholders, implemented the “Let’s Talk Series”, a student mental health awareness programme designed to foster resilience, encourage help-seeking behaviour, and promote positive well-being among young people.
The initiative commenced with a university-wide mental health awareness campaign and the training of 100 peer counselling buddies before extending into halls of residence across Makerere University. Through a series of interactive engagements, students explored critical issues including addiction management, self-discipline, personal development, and healthy relationships.
The programme reached more than 300 students across eight halls of residence and contributed to building a more supportive and informed university community. By creating spaces for dialogue and peer support, the initiative underscored the importance of mental health as a foundation for academic success, responsible leadership, and holistic development.
Read the full report and magazine to explore the programme activities, outcomes, and impact.
Key Events (Table of Contents Highlights)
- Introduction to the “Let’s Talk Series”
- Background and Rationale for Student Mental Health Awareness
- Launch of the Mental Health Awareness Campaign (25 February 2023)
- Training of 100 Peer Counselling Buddies
- Programme Methodology and Implementation
- Campaign Outcomes and Impact
- Reach Across Eight Makerere University Halls of Residence
- University Hall Session – Managing Addictive Disorders
- Mary Stuart Hall Session – Addiction Awareness
- Mitchell Hall Session – Building Willpower and Self-Discipline
- Complex Hall Session – Strengthening Self-Control
- Livingstone Hall Session – Taking Charge of Your Life
- Africa Hall Session – Managing Toxic Relationships
- Nkrumah Hall Session – Relationship Dilemmas and Healthy Boundaries
- Social Media Engagement and Awareness Campaign Results
- Conclusion and Lessons Learned