As Uganda transitions to a new competency-based curriculum, it is crucial that the Ministry of Education not only focuses on reducing the pressure of examinations but also addresses the pressing mental health issues that are affecting young people in schools. The recent alarming statistics reveal that 17.6% of school-going children in Uganda are battling depressive disorders, with rising rates of anxiety and insomnia. This crisis cannot be ignored any longer.
Just imagine is it acceptable for a three-year-old child to be seen on a Boda heading to school at 6:00Am in the morning? What kind of sleep is this child receiving, and how does it affect their mental health and development? The reality is concerning. As reported in a recent study published in the New Vision on March 14th, insufficient sleep and the stresses of modern education are taking a toll on the mental well-being of our youth.
Research conducted by Prof. Helen Weise and supported by leading institutions highlights the urgent need for better sleep and mental health support in our schools. The implications of sleep deprivation on the cognitive and emotional development of students are profound. The lack of adequate rest not only hampers academic performance but can also lead to long-term psychological issues, thereby compromising the future of our young people.
The climate crisis, with its accompanying heat waves, has exacerbated the situation, as noted in my previous article on the mental health struggles caused by extreme weather. However, the challenge extends beyond environmental factors; systemic issues within our education system, such as early school hours and excessive workload, contribute significantly to the mental health crisis.
According to the World Health Organization, mental health is a critical component of overall health. It is essential for learning and development, yet our current educational framework seems to neglect this fundamental aspect. Schools are meant to be safe havens for learning, but when they inadvertently become sources of stress and anxiety, they fail in their primary mission.
To address this growing crisis, we must advocate for the following:
1. Implement Policies for Adequate Rest: The Ministry of Education should consider revising school hours to ensure that children have enough time for rest and recuperation. Proper sleep is vital for cognitive function and emotional stability.
2. Integrate Mental Health Education: Schools should incorporate mental health education into the curriculum, equipping students with the tools to understand and manage their mental health.
3. Provide Accessible Mental Health Resources: Establish mental health support services within schools, including counseling and wellness programs, to assist students in navigating their emotional challenges.
4. Engage Parents and Communities: Creating awareness around the importance of mental health among parents and communities can foster a supportive environment for children.
As we reflect on the good future of education in our glorious Uganda, it is imperative that we do not overlook the mental health of our students for it has a lot to say about the future. The statistics are clear, and the time to act I think is now because it’s not too late. By prioritizing mental health and proper hours of rest, we can create an educational system that not only values academic achievement but also nurtures the well-being of our youth.
For more insights on how sleep deprivation is impacting students’ futures and what can be done to address this crisis, read the full study here: New Vision Article
I was inspired to think deeper on how we can each be part of the solution to supplement and raise awareness about the existing ministry of education efforts and school programs on mental health as a teacher to encourage other teachers and school administrators to keep in mind the needs of our students. Working together in this call to action, ensuring that every child in Uganda receives the support they need to thrive both academically and emotionally. Our future depends on it.
Immaculate Kisembo, Eng Lit tr at HCLV and Laudato Youth Initiative Publications Editor
