Baze University, Abuja, recently concluded its 8th Career Week Programme (BaCWeP) with a call for greater action on mental health. The two-day programme, held from October 6 to 7, 2026, was organised by the University's Student Support Unit in collaboration with the Faculties. The theme of the programme was "Prioritisation of Mental Health: Beyond Lip Service." The programme aimed to promote mental health awareness and encourage practical steps to promote wellbeing.
The programme commenced with a Mental Health Awareness Walk to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), where the Baze University delegation was received by Dr Godwin Orukpe, who represented the Medical Director. The delegation also toured the hospital's facilities under the guidance of Dr Abdullahi Mustapha Hassan, Head of the Department of Mental Health. This was followed by a free medical check-up at Baze University, providing members of the university community with an opportunity to assess their health.
The second day of the programme featured a symposium comprising lectures, interactive sessions and discussions with professionals and mental health advocates. The symposium discussed issues including stress, anxiety, depression, coping mechanisms, early help-seeking and peer support. The Vice-Chancellor of Baze University, Professor Abiodun Adeniyi, commended the programme's focus on mental health awareness and emphasised the need to move beyond conversations to practical action.
Professor Abiodun Adeniyi stressed that mental health conditions should be treated with the same seriousness and care as other illnesses. His remarks underscored the need to challenge stigma, encourage early intervention and ensure that mental wellbeing receives adequate attention within educational institutions and society at large. The discussions at the symposium also examined the relationship between mental health, academic performance and career development.
The keynote address was delivered by the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande Wisdom, who reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to youth development and mental wellbeing. He encouraged students to prioritise their mental health and called for more accessible, stigma-free support systems for young people. Other speakers shared practical insights on coping with mental health challenges and building supportive peer networks.
The programme highlighted the role of the Baze University Counselling and Human Development Centre in providing a safe and supportive environment for students. The Head of the Student Support Unit, Mrs VS Tarka, said Baze University was committed to amplifying conversations around mental health and ensuring that students and staff understood the importance of mental wellbeing to their personal and professional development.
The 8th Career Week concluded with students describing the programme as insightful, timely and impactful. The initiative further reinforced Baze University's commitment to the holistic development of its students and staff by recognising mental wellbeing as an essential component of academic success, career development and overall quality of life.
Key points
- Baze University calls for greater action on mental health awareness and practical steps to promote wellbeing.
- The programme aimed to challenge stigma, encourage early intervention and ensure mental wellbeing receives adequate attention.
- The university recognises mental wellbeing as essential to academic success, career development and overall quality of life.
