Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda Hosts Global Peer Support Day 2024 Celebrations

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda hosted the celebration of Global Peer Support Day 2024 on Friday, November 1, 2024. The event brought together Mastercard Foundation Scholars at the University of Rwanda and scholars from partner universities namely Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), African Leadership University (ALU), and African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) to reflect on the importance of mental health peer support in building resilience and well-being in university settings.

Celebrated under the theme “It Is Time to Prioritize Mental Health Peer Support: Building Resilience and Well-Being in University Settings”, the Global Peer Support Day 2024 celebrations represented a vital step in prioritizing mental health and fostering a culture of support in university environments.
While addressing the participants, the Program Director of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda, Associate Professor Anne Marie Kagwesage said that peer support systems not only provide a network of emotional backing but also create connections that empower students to take charge of their mental health. “They embody hope, facilitate understanding, and enhance resilience in the face of the unique challenges that university life presents,” she said.

“In a world where mental health challenges are increasingly recognized, it is our responsibility to create spaces that encourage open dialogue and shared experiences. This gathering is an opportunity for us to learn from one another, share our aspirations, and collectively enhance the well-being of our fellow students,” she added.

The Global Peer Support Day 2024 was organized by Solid Minds, a partner organization that provides psychological services to Mastercard Foundation Scholars at the University of Rwanda and other universities to empower them maintain mental health and wellness along their academic journey.
“Universities are both learning and working environments. Today’s 2024 World Mental Health Day shines a light on fostering well-being for both students and staff” said Mr. Sam Munderere, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Solid Minds

Over the past years, various student-led initiatives have been established and have greatly contributed to providing support for peers to navigate the challenges of university life. The celebration therefore served as an occasion to recognize the efforts made by initiatives, including the U-Love Club, the Mindful Project, Sanga Inshuti, and the Clinical Psychology Students’ Association of Rwanda (CPSAR).

Mental health peer supporters from partner universities were also recognized, including those from the University of Rwanda (UR), the African Leadership University (ALU), the Institute of Mathematical Sciences in Rwanda (AIMS), and the Carnegie Mellon University Africa (CMU-Africa). The initiatives were recognized for empowering students to advocate for mental well-being at their respective universities.

The celebration also provided an opportunity for mental health professionals to elaborate on how peer support groups can assist peers in addressing various challenges, including anxiety, depression, drug abuse prevention, and relationship issues among others.
Mental health is crucial for Mastercard Foundation Scholars, as it directly impacts their academic performance, personal development, and overall well-being. As scholars come from diverse and backgrounds, they also face unique pressures associated with their studies and career aspirations. A strong mental health foundation therefore enables them to cope with these challenges, build resilience, and enhance their capacity for collaboration and innovation.

“Sharing my experiences with my fellow scholars has inspired hope and fostered feelings of support and understanding. We have been reminded of how to navigate the struggles we may face, including anxiety and depression. We learned that together, we can encourage one another and find our way to positivity” says Samuel Adut Loi Akok, Mastercard Foundation Scholar at the University of Rwanda pursuing Bachelor of Food Science and technology at College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Food Science (CAFF).

Josiane Dusingizimana, Mastercard Foundation Scholar at the University of Rwanda pursuing creative and performing arts at College of Arts and Social Sciences(CASS) also noted that discussions made reminded scholars of the importance of prioritizing mental health and supporting those who show signs of mental health issues. “Engaging in open conversations and staying close to those in need will undoubtedly help them heal and thrive” she said.

The Global Peer Support Day 2024 was a vital step in prioritizing mental health and fostering a culture of support in university settings. By bringing together students, faculty, and partners, the celebrations contributed to creating a collaborative environment for peer support to thrive.