The government of Rwanda has launched a school-based mental health programme as part of the efforts to strengthen the fight against mental health illness among the youth. The programme was launched Thursday, December 3 at the New Explorers Girls Academy (NEGA), in Bugesera District. On the sidelines of the event, Dr Yvonne Kayiteshonga, the head of mental health division at the Ministry of Health told The New Times that through the programme, they will equip teachers with basic skills to help students in the wake of a mental health condition. This, she said, will also reduce the number of students who have been going to various hospitals for treatment. “We have put in place this program to get closer to them (students),” said Kayiteshonga, adding that it is difficult to immediately detect the symptoms of a mental problem. “And when the symptoms don’t manifest, it can lead to serious physical or mental illnesses.” Kayiteshonga gave an example of a mass hysteria disease that was reported in different schools in the country last year. The disease weakened the knees incapacitating the victim to walk. The Bugesera school (NEGA), reported 24 cases. “Last year we were exposed when a mass hysteria disease was reported in schools. The victims were prone to depression and paralysis. It was even evident that they were isolated from their friends,” she said. Under the programme, Gaspard Twagirayezu, the Minister of State in charge of Primary and Secondary Education said that specific teachers are going to be trained on how such cases can be handled at the school before the child can be sent to a hospital for further treatment. “It is important that we ensure that a school setting is a safe place for any student. The student should feel safe, have friends and also have a specific person to approach in case they want to consult any mental health expert”. According to Twagirayezu, training of teachers will kick off this month, and it will be monitored by the Ministry of Health. “For the first phase, we are not hiring mental health experts, but we are training specific teachers to ensure that they are equipped with this knowledge,” he said. Orante Tuyizere, senior five student who spoke on behalf of the students welcomed the development saying that students need someone to confide in especially those who are in lower classes. “You will find young senior 1 and 2 students seated in the corner without someone to talk to.” “And all of us (students) will not really mind about them yet they could be in need. So I really think that this programme is coming to solve such cases,” she added. Reports indicate that the majority of mental disorders usually start during childhood or adolescence and may continue till adulthood. Worldwide, 10-20% of children and adolescents experience mental disorders. The Rwanda Mental Health Survey conducted in 2018 reported a 10.2% prevalence of mental disorders among 14 -18 years old.
