By: Mariam Kidhangi

May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, and  the Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) has taken deliberate steps beyond awareness to ACTION.

Through its Guidance and Counselling Unit, the University hosted a meaningful engagement aimed at prioritizing the mental well-being of both students and staff.

The session was officially opened by Mr. Joel Awino, TUM Dean of Students, who delivered a compelling keynote highlighting the urgent need to rethink how mental health is addressed within academic spaces. He emphasized its direct influence on student success, staff productivity, and the overall university environment.

The engagement was led by Dr. Soud Alli Tengah, Head of the TUM Mental Health, Guidance and Counselling Unit, who unpacked the TUM Wellbeing Model, access to counselling services, and the impact of mental health on relationships. His insights sparked meaningful dialogue among staff, bringing forward real concerns and lived experiences within the institution.

“Recent global reports indicate a significant shift, with mental health now ranking among the leading health concerns,highlighting the urgency for institutions to act,” noted Dr. Soud Tengah. 

Adding to the call for action, Mr. Edward Kaingu, Senior TUM Counselor, emphasized the need for a stigma free environment where seeking psychological support is embraced as a sign of strength rather than weakness.

Through this awareness-driven action, TUM continues to set a powerful example,that true progress is not only measured in academic excellence, but also in the well-being of its people.

This initiative reinforces the University’s commitment to fostering a culture where mental health is prioritized, supported, and fully integrated into everyday institutional life.