There is a need for joint efforts in combating mental health issues and drug abuse among Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students, the head of Meru National Polytechnic has said.
Speaking during a students’ forum at the institution, Chief Principal Mutembei Kigige said that due to the hard economic situation in the country, most students have resorted to indulging in substance abuse as a result of stress and mental anguish.
“I urge parents to support their children. Majority of students are unable to concentrate on their studies due to financial constraints,” he noted.
Kigige appealed to the youth to seek assistance from their elders whenever they face challenges instead of indulging in self-harming activities.
The Chief Principal noted that the institution has a Counseling Department that offers guidance to their students.
Denies Kithinji, an Addiction Psychologist, said that students should desist engaging in substance abuse and unhealthy romantic relationships.
“I urge education institutions to come up with forums where trained counselors can be called to speak with students. Mental health among students is deteriorating day by day,” he said.
The students’ union President, Daisy Kanana, appreciated the Polytechnic’s initiative to hold mental health awareness forums for students.
“Through such forums, we students are able to cope with difficult challenges the majority of us face,” said Kanana.
Kanana noted that they shall be holding such forums regularly so as to ensure that they minimize self harm activities and silent suffering among students.
By Jeff Mwangi
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