Nkumba University freshers have been urged to prioritise their mental wellbeing and seek professional support whenever they encounter emotional or psychological challenges during their academic journey.
The call was made on Wednesday during the August 2026 Freshers’ Orientation at Mpanga Library, where Jamila Nantale, a counsellor from Munnange Counselling Centre, addressed the new entrants on the importance of mental health awareness as they transition into university life.
Welcoming the students, Nantale described admission to university as both an achievement and a life-changing responsibility that demands resilience, discipline and self-awareness. “Welcome to Nkumba University. It is a great achievement and, at the same time, a challenge. Every one of us has mental health, and it is important to understand the difference between mental health and mental illness,” she said.
She noted that university life presents unique pressures that can affect students’ wellbeing if left unmanaged, adding that studies indicate one in three university students experiences a mental health challenge during their time on campus.
According to Nantale, anxiety remains one of the most common conditions among fresh students as they adjust to unfamiliar environments, new academic programmes and increased responsibilities. She added that unresolved stress can develop into depression, while substance misuse and addiction continue to pose significant risks within university communities.
She attributed these challenges to several factors, including peer pressure, academic demands, excessive freedom away from parental supervision and financial constraints.
“Have a goal and know what you want. Make the right friends, focus on what brought you to university, which is studying, and seek help whenever you need it,” she advised.
She further encouraged students to make use of available counselling services before their concerns worsen. “Munnange Counselling Centre is here for you. Do not hesitate to seek support because early detection and intervention are better than allowing issues to escalate into mental illness,” Ms Nantale said.
She concluded her address with a reminder that “a clear mind is everybody’s right,” urging students to treat their mental wellbeing with the same importance as their academic success.
The mental health awareness session sought to equip newly admitted students with the knowledge and support systems necessary for a successful transition into university life.
In recent years, universities across Uganda have increasingly incorporated mental health education into orientation programmes in response to growing concerns over stress, anxiety, depression and substance abuse among young people. Higher education institutions have expanded counselling and psychosocial support services as part of broader efforts to promote student wellbeing, improve academic performance and reduce dropout rates. At Nkumba University, mental health awareness remains an integral component of student support.
