Voices for Change: Annual Campus Mental Health Conference

Ile-Ife, Nigeria – November 30, 2024 – The Piquant Health Foundation hosted the groundbreaking annual Campus Mental Health Conference. The inspiring and pragmatic conference focused on suicide awareness and prevention, bringing together experts, scholars, and students to discuss one of the most pressing mental health issues of our time. The event which held at the I.C.T Center of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife featured two keynote speakers, Professor Boladale Mapayi, a renowned behavioral scientist with Ph.D in Clinical Sciences from Obafemi Awolowo University and Dr. Folorunso T. Akinsolu, an esteemed lecturer at Department of Public Health at Lead City University, Ibadan. 

This was followed by an engaging panel session with eight distinguished panelists led by the Chief Panelist in the person of Professor Macellina Ijadunola Yinyinade, a distinguished Physician and Professor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife. 

Other panelists included Dr. Posi Emmanuel Aduroja, an experienced lecturer, consultant and Public Health Researcher, OAU S.U PRO. e.t.c. 

The program was graced by about 300 attendees among which 95% were OAU students and 5% were guests and experts. 

Opening Address and Keynote Speeches 

The event commenced at 9:00 A.M with an opening address by the founder of Piquant Health Foundation Dr. Kalu Agada (MCSP), who emphasized the urgency of addressing suicide, especially among young people, Dr. Kalu also stated the foundation will always commit to the advancement of Mental Health in Nigeria and African as a whole through similar projects. The Founder of PHF went on to commend the Co-founder Mr Olayinka Peter who led the Team in executing one of the most impactful suicide awareness and prevention programs in the history of Obafemi Awolowo University. 

Professor Boladale Mapayi, a renowned behavioral scientist, delivered the first keynote speech, focusing on the psychological factors leading to suicide and strategies for early intervention. She highlighted the importance of community support and accessible mental health care. 

Dr. Folorunso T. Akinsolu, an esteemed lecturer of Public Health, followed with a compelling presentation on societal perceptions of suicide, the role of stigma, and the need for policy reforms to support mental health initiatives. He underscored the significance of educational institutions in fostering a culture of openness and support for students facing mental health challenges. 

Panel Discussion: Addressing the Crisis

The highlight of the event was the panel discussion, which brought together eight experts from various fields, including psychology, social work, law, and education. The panelists delved into critical issues such as: 

The role of families and communities in suicide prevention. 

The impact of social media on mental health. 

The effectiveness of current suicide prevention policies in Nigeria. 

The need for better mental health education in schools and universities. 

Over Three Hundred Attendees actively engaged in the discussion, sharing personal experiences and asking insightful questions. Several students voiced concerns about the lack of mental health resources on campus and the stigma associated with seeking help. 

Call to Action and Closing Remarks 

As the event concluded, the speakers and panelists emphasized the need for continuous dialogue and proactive measures to address suicide. The Speakers urged institutions, policymakers, and individuals to prioritize mental health and create safe spaces for open conversations. 

The lecture ended on a hopeful note, with a collective commitment to breaking the stigma surrounding suicide and fostering a more supportive community at OAU and beyond. 

There was also a mini contest for the attendees in the form of a spoken word contest which had a total of 12 contestants. The top two contestants were awarded. Speakers and Volunteers were also awarded and presented Certificates. The event ended around 6:00 P.M in the evening. 

Conclusion 

The Piquant Health Foundation event at Obafemi Awolowo University served as a vital platform for raising awareness and initiating meaningful discussions on suicide prevention. As conversations continue, it is hoped that tangible actions will follow, ensuring better mental health support systems for individuals at risk.