BY TANDZILE DLAMINI
MBABANE – The Sifiso Mental Health Foundation, a youth led nonprofit, successfully hosted a crucial mental health workshop yesterday, October 18, 2025, at the University of Eswatini (UNESWA), Kwaluseni Campus. The foundation collaborated with the Eswatini Royal Police Services (ERPS) from Sigodvweni to train Peer Counsellors and educators, aiming to improve access to mental health resources and address serious crises on campus.
The foundation initiated this program in response to a troubling rise in suicide cases, substance use disorders, and gender based violence (GBV) among students, compounded by a lack of awareness and the stigma surrounding mental health.
Equipping Peer Counsellors
The training was designed to equip Peer Counsellors and educators with the skills to provide mental health education and counseling to their peers. Police personnel shared vital insights on GBV, the laws associated with it, and how peer counsellors can prevent it and raise awareness. Furthermore, the ERPS detailed the specific police services students can safely access during crisis situations.
The program is a direct response to a concerning trend, as Eswatini has recently seen a troubling rise in suicide cases, substance use disorders, and GBV among students. The Sifiso Foundation believes this training enhances access to services by empowering frontline counsellors within tertiary institutions, countering the pervasive lack of awareness and stigma.
National Health and Development Goal
Sifiso Shabangu, Founder and Director of the Foundation, emphasized the belief that “there can be no health without mental health.” By promoting mental health among tertiary students, the foundation helps create a conducive learning environment and contributes directly to the country’s efforts in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), which aims to promote health for all ages by 2030.
The youth led organization urged individuals, companies, and organizations to partner with them to expand the program. Their ambitious goal is to successfully deliver the mental health program to every single tertiary institution in the country at the beginning of each academic year.
( Courtesy Pics)
