KERICHO — In response to a troubling increase in mental health issues among university and college students in Kericho County, local leaders have launched a comprehensive initiative aimed at bolstering mental health resources and support systems within educational institutions. This move is led by Deputy County Assembly Speaker Erick Bett and nominated MCA Bhavina Serem.
According to Kenya News Agency, speaking at a function organized by the Kericho County Tertiary Student Association (KECOTSA) at the Nishkam Saint Puran Singh Institute (NSPSI), financial constraints, unemployment, and inadequate parental and community guidance are the primary contributors to the students’ mental health challenges. In response, a new bill, “The Youth Empowerment Bill 2024,” will be presented to the County Assembly. This legislation seeks to reserve 30 percent of county activities, including contracts and tenders, for the youth and aims to better link students with job opportunities relevant to their fields of study.
The urgency of these measures is underscored by the report from MCA Serem that eight student suicides have occurred in the county in 2024 alone, often connected to social issues such as relationship problems. Serem stressed the importance of addressing these underlying issues promptly and urged students to openly seek help and discuss their struggles.
Further discussions at the event covered the dangers of drug abuse and alcoholism, with leaders advocating for healthy lifestyle choices among the youth. The event also highlighted the value of entrepreneurship, with speakers sharing success stories of individuals who turned their passions into viable businesses. This was aimed at inspiring students to consider self-employment as a viable path to economic independence.
The day’s messages emphasized creating a supportive environment where young people can thrive by speaking openly about their challenges and pursuing innovative paths to success. The event served as a call to action for the community to engage more deeply with its youth, providing them with the tools they need to navigate life’s challenges effectively.