MKU launches program to help young people tackle mental health issues

In recent days, the country has been in total awe following gruesome homicides instigated by young people.

The Kiambu one, which was quite peculiar and unfortunately involved one of our students, continues to trend and others, like the high school student who stabbed two teachers in Kisii and yet another one, who attempted to slash his deputy principal with a panga in neighboring Nyamira.

It is clear that our young people are not okay, actually have not been in a long time and we can’t continue to sit down and watch anymore.

To that effect, Mount Kenya University, as an institution, has sat down, deliberated and come decided to establish a fully-fledged program to support our youth and tackle mental health issues head-on.

The project will be spearheaded by MKU co-founder and board member Dr Jane Nyutu, who recently graduated with a doctorate in Counselling Psychology.

She has endeavored to use her expertise and skills in solving the learners’ psychological problems, arrest indiscipline in learning institutions and help the youth cope with the effects of Covid-19 pandemic.

With the stewardship of Dr Nyutu, MKU Chairman Prof Simon Gicharu is confident the program will have a positive impact on the society and be beneficial to the university fraternity.

“I know that I have a partner who understands the youth, the education system and MKU’s vision better. I trust the PhD will give her more resolve to make the institution a better place and help students tackle this emerging giant of mental health issues,” Prof Gicharu notes.

We know there will be a lot to learn and unlearn at the beginning, but we’re more than committed to making this necessary change which is in line with our mission of providing world-class education, research and innovation for global transformation and sustainable development.