Mental health materials for schools to address rising mental challenges for learners launched

22 May 2026, 10:13 am

Byamukama Alozious

The Ministry of Education and Sports has launched new Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) materials for learning institutions following increasing concerns from students over stress, emotional exhaustion and mental pressure in schools. The materials, now officially approved for use in all learning institutions across Uganda, are intended to strengthen mental wellness among learners and teachers and create safer, more supportive school communities.

The launch, held at Serena Hotel in Kampala under the theme “Prioritizing Mental Wellness for Better Teaching and Learning Outcomes,” brought together education stakeholders, development partners, mental health experts and the media to promote awareness and use of the new materials. The initiative was spearheaded by the Ministry’s Department of Guidance and Counselling with support from UNESCO and local organizations working in mental health and child protection.

The newly developed materials include learner guides, booklets, charts and mental health messages designed to promote emotional resilience, stress management, healing, listening and psychosocial support in schools. The materials were reviewed and developed in partnership with Makerere University School of Public Health, Butabika National Referral Hospital and other partners to help learners acquire socio-emotional skills, resilience, critical thinking and coping mechanisms needed for a healthy future.

Nsamba Said , the National Coordinator for Mental Health and Psychosocial Support at the Ministry of Education, said the intervention followed petitions and concerns from students who reported feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained and unable to cope with growing academic and social pressures. He said the ministry recognized the urgent need to strengthen mental health support systems within schools before the situation worsened.

According to Nsamba, the overall purpose of the launch is to popularize the use of the Mental Wellbeing and Psychosocial Support materials among different stakeholders in order to build resilient school communities and improve learning outcomes. He noted that access to supportive reference materials can help reduce stress, depression and suicidal thoughts while also improving academic performance and reducing school dropout rates.

He emphasized that schools remain important institutions in shaping young people’s wellbeing and future, adding that mental health support must become part of everyday learning and teaching processes.

Yvonne Laruni, a Programs Officer at Raising Voices, said the organization started mental health advocacy in schools about four years ago while addressing violence against children and emotional wellbeing among learners. She said the organization has since developed toolkits such as debate topics, skits and discussion guides that encourage students to openly discuss mental health challenges and seek support.

Laruni added that Raising Voices is currently supporting four schools, including Kyasa Secondary School, where learners have started sharing personal experiences and participating in conversations aimed at ending stigma around mental health. She stressed that young people need safe spaces where they can freely express themselves, heal and receive support without fear of judgment.

Stakeholders at the launch also identified the media as a key partner in promoting mental wellness among young people through awareness campaigns and public education. They noted that prioritizing mental health in schools will not only improve wellbeing among learners and teachers but also contribute to better educational achievement and healthier communities.