Piquant Health Foundation Hosts Groundbreaking Campus Mental Health Conference at OAU

Piquant Health Foundation Hosts Groundbreaking Campus Mental Health Conference at OAU

Ile-Ife, Nigeria – November 30, 2024 – The Piquant Health Foundation hosted the groundbreaking annual Campus Mental Health Conference, focusing on suicide awareness and prevention. The event brought together experts, scholars, and students to discuss one of the most pressing mental health issues of our time. Held at the I.C.T Center of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, the conference featured two keynote speakers: Professor Boladale Mapayi, a renowned behavioral scientist with a Ph.D. in Clinical Sciences from Obafemi Awolowo University, and Dr. Folorunso T. Akinsolu, an esteemed lecturer in the 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, Professor Macellina Ijadunola Yinyinade, a distinguished physician and professor at Obafemi Awolowo University.

Other panelists included Dr. Posi Emmanuel Aduroja, an experienced lecturer, consultant, and public health researcher, as well as OAU S.U PRO, among others.

The program attracted about 300 attendees, with 95% being OAU students and 5% 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 stated that the foundation is committed to advancing mental health in Nigeria and Africa through similar projects. He commended Co-founder Mr. Olayinka Peter for leading the team in executing one of the most impactful suicide awareness and prevention programs in the history of Obafemi Awolowo University.

Professor Boladale Mapayi 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 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 a panel discussion that 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 300 attendees actively engaged in the discussion, sharing personal experiences and asking insightful questions. Several students raised 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. They urged institutions, policymakers, and individuals to prioritize mental health and create safe spaces for open conversations.

The conference 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. A mini spoken word contest featured 12 contestants, with awards presented to the top two. Speakers and volunteers were also recognized and awarded certificates. The event concluded around 6:00 P.M.

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.