The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Counselling Centre has held a mental health promotion seminar for senior high schools in the Ashanti region.
The initiative aims to promote emotional resilience and psychological well-being among the youth.
The event, part of the centre’s emotional awareness initiative, brought together students from selected schools to discuss mental health, career planning, and relationships.
The Head of the KNUST Counselling Centre, Mrs Victoria Degraft- Adjei reaffirmed the university’s commitment to nurturing holistic student development. “The Centre is not only concerned with admitting students but with ensuring they succeed in all areas of life,” she said.
Mrs Degraft-Adjei explained that academic excellence cannot be sustained without sound mental health.
According to her, true student success involves the ability to manage emotions, strengthen psychological resilience, and build the mental stamina required to thrive academically and personally.“Mental health is health, many students fail not because they are weak academically, but because they are struggling emotionally and mentally.”
She urged participants to manage their emotions effectively and take advantage of available support systems.
Mr. Gilbert Langu, a Counsellor, urged the students to make deliberate and well-informed decisions about their future careers. He stated that while many invest heavily in their education, few take time to understand themselves and plan.
He encouraged students to assess their interests, abilities, strengths, and family backgrounds before selecting university programmes or career paths.
Mr. Langu advised students to consult guidance counsellors, research entry requirements for their desired university programmes, and be realistic about market demand and long-term goals. “Success is not just about passing exams, it’s about aligning your passion with opportunity,” he stated.
Rev. Mrs. Rita Adanuvo of Relationship Clinic advised participants to pursue healthy, purposeful relationships based on mutual respect, trust, and clear boundaries.
She outlined key traits of a healthy relationship, emphasising that both parties must be committed to its growth and wellbeing.
She warned of the emotional and spiritual impact of premarital sex and advocated for abstinence as a means of preserving self-worth and ensuring future marital stability.
“Sex is sacred and was designed by God for marriage,” she stated, warning of the emotional, psychological, and spiritual consequences of premarital sex.
She advised them to choose their friendships wisely, be mindful of their environments, and rely on prayer and faith to resist temptation.
“God is ready to help you, but you must first take a stand to protect your heart and future,” she concluded.
Schools in attendance included St. Hubert Seminary School, Kumasi Academy, Ejisuman SHS, St. Louis SHS, Juaben SHS, Anglican SHS, Asanteman SHS, Kumasi Wesley Girls SHS, T.I. Ahmadiyya SHS, Kumasi Technical Institute, Serwaa Nyarko SHS, Prempeh College, and KNUST SHS.
