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Healing Through Friendship : UR Rukara Campus marks World Mental Health Day with purpose

20 Nov 2025

A panel discussion on Mental Health aimed at helping participants understand what mental help is

World Mental Health Day is globally observed every 10 October. UR Rukara Campus marked the 2025 edition on 19 November, embracing the theme “Healing Through Friendship” to encourage open conversations and peer support among students.

The commemoration was led by the Sanga Inshuti Initiative, a mental-health students’ club at UR Rukara Campus, dedicated to promoting emotional well-being, empathy, and safe spaces for sharing personal experiences. Supported by partners including Solid Minds, KORA Coaching and Business Academy, UR Centre for Mental Health and representatives from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UR, the event brought together students, staff, and mental-health advocates committed to breaking stigma and strengthening community support.

The commemoration gathered UR Rukara Campus students, staff and partner representatives

Partners who contributed to the event shared inspiring reflections that shaped the day.

Mireille Karera, CEO and Executive Chairwoman of KORA Coaching and Business Academy, encouraged students to begin healing by first investing in themselves. She reminded them that “building strong friendships starts with building yourself,” and praised UR for fostering both academic and mental growth.

Speaking on behalf of the College of Education leadership, Mr. Salomon Nshimiyimana, Campus Administrator, emphasized the strength that comes from collective support. He noted that “a strong mind grows in a strong community,” and encouraged students to uplift one another to create an environment where everyone can thrive.

From the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UR, Christella Ishimwe highlighted the importance of intentional self-care during academic life. She urged students to set clear goals, make time for activities that bring joy, and seek support when needed. She reminded them that reaching out—whether for academic, emotional, or psychological help—is an act of courage.

The presence of Solid Minds reinforced the value of early support and emotional literacy, aligning strongly with the event’s focus on connection and peer-led healing.

The celebration concluded with a renewed sense of unity on campus. Students were encouraged to rely on one another, build meaningful friendships, and continue speaking openly about mental health. The event reaffirmed UR Rukara Campus’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded, emotionally resilient future educators.
More in photos :

Story by
NTIRANDEKURA Schadrac
PRO,UR-CE

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