Prof. Catherine Gachutha
Mental health experts have called on the government to integrate mental health education into the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) to address the rising cases of psychological disorders among young people. This call, led by counsellors and university scholars, highlights the urgency of equipping students with tools to combat anxiety, depression, suicide, substance abuse, and other mental health challenges.
Prof. Catherine Gachutha, a Senior Psychologist and the CEO of the Kenya Institute of Business and Counselling (KIBCo) and Kenya Counselling and Psychological Association (KCPA) emphasized the gravity of the situation, warning that failure to act could result in losing an entire generation to mental health crises. “This issue demands a serious national debate,” she stated.
The experts are advocating for mental health training to be integrated into the school syllabus starting from primary school. This, they argue, will provide students with coping mechanisms and resilience, enabling them to navigate life’s challenges more effectively. Furthermore, they insist that all learning institutions, from primary schools to universities, should have trained counsellors capable of providing both teaching and counselling services.
“Many students are financially strained and face various struggles which, if not addressed, can lead to depression with devastating consequences,” Prof. Gachutha added. She also called for increased funding for mental health initiatives in schools and community programs to make these services accessible and impactful.
The stakeholders underscored the need for enhanced partnerships between the government, educational institutions, and local administrations to effectively tackle the mental health crisis. They urged for proactive measures to ensure the well-being of students, thereby securing the future of the nation.
The push to include mental health education in CBC reflects the growing recognition that mental well-being is essential for academic success and overall societal development. Without urgent and coordinated action, experts warn, the country risks long-term social and economic repercussions.
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