Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Technology, Honourable Francis Folley, has reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to prioritising mental health and wellbeing within the education system.

Folley was speaking on Friday in Blantyre during a scientific showcasing event organised by Millennium University, which brings together scientists, mental health practitioners, policymakers, university leaders, development partners and other stakeholders to share research and interventions on mental health.

He said mentally and emotionally healthy students are better able to concentrate, participate and learn effectively in class.

“Investing in the mental wellness of our learners is an investment in their future, overall wellbeing and academic success,” said Folley.

European Union Ambassador to Malawi, Daniel Aristi, said one in seven adolescents globally experiences mental health challenges, which can negatively affect their academic performance.

He said the EU is supporting efforts to address mental health challenges through the African Research Initiative for Scientific Excellence (ARISE), a programme implemented in collaboration with the African Academy of Sciences to strengthen research cooperation between Africa and Europe.

Meanwhile, Millennium University Board Chairperson Dr Felix Lombe said the university is addressing Malawi’s growing mental health challenges through a joint research programme recognised by the African Academy of Sciences.

Lombe said the EU-funded initiative, involving universities from Europe, Latin America and Africa, is the first of its kind for a private university in Malawi.

He said the research seeks to develop an e-curriculum to address gaps in formal mental health education in public universities and establish a comprehensive undergraduate programme, alongside existing master’s and PhD research programmes.