The recent incident where a Form 4 student at Sironga Girls in Nyamira county committed suicide by jumping off the third floor of a dorm, indicates a failure in collective responsibility by education stakeholders.
Suicide has become a pressing issue that cannot be ignored, and it is crucial that the government addresses this critical issue to prioritize students’ lives.
Mental health issues including anxiety and depression are among the most significant risk factors that lead to suicide. These feelings can stem from various causes such as academic pressure, financial stress, isolation, trauma, loss of loved ones leading to an overwhelming feeling of hopelessness.
During third term, most candidates in secondary schools become anxious due to tension and pressure to perform in their KCSE examinations.
First, schools should ensure they take care of students’ mental health through having talks and encouraging them to speak their minds and inviting motivational speakers to address them among other interventions. This can help them vent out their grievances.
They should also utilize the Guidance and Counseling department to ensure issues affecting students are dealt with early enough.
Then, the government should ensure that counseling is free in public hospitals to not only assist students but also the community as a whole.
The government can also provide counseling services using media platforms including radio, TV, newspapers, and social media to target students and the youth.
Thirdly, support systems are the cornerstone to suicide prevention. Students themselves should be their colleagues’ keepers. Students should seek help for their colleagues when they notice one of them is going through a rough patch.
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Lastly, it is time for schools in collaboration with the government to provide free books, pens, sanitary towels (if it is a girls’ school), tissues and other basics.
This can help reduce stress since some students are from vulnerable families where they cannot afford necessary personal effects.
By fostering a culture of care, providing support and taking meaningful action, we can reduce the stigma around mental health and prevent unnecessary loss of life.
In conclusion, the alarming incidents of suicide underscore the urgent need for action. By prioritizing students’ mental health through counseling, we can create a safety environment for learning. A collaborative effort from government, teachers and students is essential to ensure a conducive learning environment in schools.
By Faith Oloo
The writer is a student at Rongo University.
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