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Participants in the NIHR Project Endline Policy Event pose for a group photo with Dr. Raymond Ndikumana, UR DVC-SPA, at the University of Rwanda Headquarters.

At a time when mental health and psychosocial well-being are becoming increasingly important in education systems worldwide, the University of Rwanda hosted a high-level NIHR Project Endline Policy Event that brought together researchers, policymakers, education leaders, and development partners to discuss sustainable approaches to supporting children and adolescents in schools.

Held at the University of Rwanda Headquarters, the event served as a platform to reflect on research findings, lessons learned, and policy recommendations aimed at strengthening mental well-being among young people in educational settings.

Officially opening the event on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Raymond Ndikumana, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Strategic Planning and Administration, delivered a thoughtful and human-centered message that placed learners’ well-being at the center of education transformation efforts.

Raymond Ndikumana delivers opening remarks at the NIHR Project Endline Policy Event.

Speaking to participants, Dr. Ndikumana reminded the audience that many young people joining higher learning institutions are still adolescents navigating a critical stage of personal growth while adapting to the demands of university life.

“At the University of Rwanda, many of our newly enrolled students are 17 or 18 years old. These are still very young people who require mentorship, psychosocial support, safeguarding, and guidance as they transition into adulthood and higher education,” he said.

His remarks resonated strongly with participants as he emphasized that schools and universities should not focus solely on academic performance, but also on creating environments where learners feel safe, supported, and understood.
“Regardless of the terminology we use, the key issue is recognizing the importance of mental health and well-being,” Dr. Ndikumana added.

International partners of the University of Rwanda in the NIHR Project exchanged views with national stakeholders on advancing mental well-being support for children and adolescents in schools.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor highlighted the importance of collaboration among universities, schools, researchers, policymakers, parents, and communities to ensure that learners receive both academic and emotional support. According to him, safe and inclusive learning environments are essential in helping young people thrive and achieve their full potential.

The policy event also demonstrated the value of international collaboration in addressing educational and psychosocial challenges. Organized in partnership with the University of Aberdeen and Addis Ababa University, the gathering brought together diverse stakeholders committed to improving mental health support systems for children and adolescents.

Throughout the discussions, participants explored how schools and higher learning institutions can integrate mental health and psychosocial support into everyday educational practice. The conversations reflected a shared understanding that supporting learners’ well-being is not only a social responsibility, but also a critical investment in quality education and sustainable development.

The event further highlighted the role of research evidence in shaping effective policies and practices. Participants stressed the need for evidence-based interventions that respond to the real experiences and challenges faced by learners in schools and universities.

By the close of the opening session, Dr. Ndikumana’s message had set a strong and compassionate tone for the day-one that called on education stakeholders to move beyond silence, stigma, and judgment, and instead build systems rooted in understanding, support, and inclusion.

As conversations on mental health continue to gain momentum globally, the University of Rwanda and its partners are contributing to a growing movement that recognizes learner well-being as a foundation for academic success, personal development, and a healthier society.

Story by

Ntirandekura Schadrac
UR-College of Education