By: Aanyu Melanie

The Minister of State for Higher Education,  Mr John Chrysostom Muyingo, has asked development partners to train teachers and counsellors to support people with mental illnesses in schools and other related illnesses to prevent cases from escalating.

He said many cases of suicides in schools across the country have emerged and it is greatly attributed to mental health.

The minister said   increasing cases of strikes and burning of education institutions as a result of mental issues among learners continue to rise.

This was during the launch of a mental health campaign in Kampala under the theme, “Make mental health and well-being for all a priority in schools and community”.

“Covid-19 increased the high dependency and poverty levels.

Muyingo said  Stakeholders should work together to promote mental health and psycho-social support among learners at school, individuals and families.

He said nearly two million people in the country suffer from mental illnesses ranging from epilepsy, bipolar disorder, alcohol use, disorder, anxiety, depression and schizophrenia.