Baze University Concludes 8th Career Week with Call for Action on Mental Health

Baze University, Abuja, has concluded its 8th Career Week Programme (BaCWeP), with stakeholders calling for practical measures to prioritise mental health and promote the wellbeing of students and staff.

The two-day programme, held from October 6 to 7, 2026, was organised by the university’s Student Support Unit (Counselling and Human Development Centre), in collaboration with the faculties, under the theme, “Prioritisation of Mental Health: Beyond Lip Service.”

The event began with a mental health awareness walk to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), where the university delegation was received by Dr Godwin Orukpe, representing the Medical Director. The delegation also toured the hospital’s facilities under the guidance of Dr Abdullahi Mustapha Hassan, Head of the Department of Mental Health.

A free medical check-up was subsequently conducted at the university, providing members of the community with an opportunity to assess their health and reinforcing the importance of physical and mental wellbeing.

The second day featured a symposium with lectures, interactive sessions and discussions involving professionals and mental health advocates. Key areas of discussion included stress management, anxiety, depression, coping strategies, early intervention and peer support.

Speaking at the symposium, the Vice-Chancellor of Baze University, Professor Abiodun Adeniyi, commended the initiative and stressed the need to translate mental health awareness into practical action.

He noted that the theme aligned with global efforts to improve understanding of mental health, emphasising that mental health conditions deserve the same seriousness and care as other illnesses.

His remarks highlighted the importance of challenging stigma, encouraging early intervention and ensuring that mental wellbeing receives adequate attention in educational institutions and society.

Discussions at the symposium also explored the relationship between mental health, academic performance and career development, highlighting the importance of psychological and emotional wellbeing in making informed career choices and sustaining professional growth.

Delivering the keynote address, the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande Wisdom, represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr Muhammad Abdullahi, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to youth development and mental wellbeing.

He encouraged students to prioritise their mental health and advocated accessible, stigma-free support systems for young people.

Other speakers included Hajia Hauwa Liman, author of the My Mind Book Project, and Halima Nuradeen, a Volunteer for Mental Health (VMH). They shared practical insights on managing mental health challenges, seeking professional help early and building supportive peer networks.

The programme also highlighted the role of the university’s Counselling and Human Development Centre in providing a safe and supportive environment where students can access guidance, counselling and professional assistance without fear of stigma.

Speaking on the significance of the programme, the Head of the Student Support Unit, Mrs VS Tarka, said the university remained committed to promoting mental health awareness and ensuring that students and staff understood its importance to personal and professional development.

She noted that the institution had a responsibility to amplify the experiences and voices of people living with mental health challenges while equipping members of its community with the knowledge and support needed to protect their wellbeing.

According to her, prioritising mental health would also help students make informed career decisions, achieve healthy career progression and maintain career stability.

Tarka explained that the theme was deliberately chosen in recognition of the mental health challenges often overlooked among young people.

She added that the programme was designed to move beyond awareness by encouraging early intervention, help-seeking and stronger support networks within the university community.

The 8th Career Week ended with students describing the programme as insightful, timely and impactful.

The initiative reaffirmed Baze University’s commitment to the holistic development of its students and staff, recognising mental wellbeing as an essential component of academic achievement, career development and overall quality of life.