• This alarming trend has prompted local leaders to take urgent action.
• Serem said there is urgency in addressing the underlying issues pushing these young individuals to such desperate measures.
University and college students in Kericho are grappling with escalating mental health issues, significantly impacting their academic performance and overall wellbeing.
This alarming trend has prompted local leaders to take urgent action.
Deputy county assembly speaker Erick Bett, the MCA for Kipchebor ward, and nominated MCA Bhavina Serem said a comprehensive initiative is underway to address the root causes.
These leaders are advocating increased mental health resources, awareness campaigns and the integration of mental health services within educational institutions to provide immediate support to affected students.
Bett said mental health challenges were mainly contributed by financial constraints, unemployment and lack of proper guidance by parents and the community.
“We are taking the Youth Empowerment Bill, 2024, to the county assembly. The Bill will be advocating 30 per cent share to youths in every sphere of the county activities, including the contracts and tenders," he said.
"Secondly, the county should know the fields where each and every comrade is specified on to help in linking them with opportunities when they arise.”
Bett spoke at a function attended by Kericho County Tertiary Student Association at Nishkam Saint Puran Singh Institute.
Kericho has been hit by a disturbing rise in student suicides, with eight cases reported this year alone, Serem said.
The nominated MCA said many of these tragic incidents were linked to social problems, including relationships issues.
The alarming trends need better mental health support and intervention strategies within the community, the ward rep said.
Serem said there is urgency in addressing the underlying issues pushing these young individuals to such desperate measures.
The MCA urged students to seek help and speak openly about their struggles.
"I encourage all students to speak up whenever they have issues. It’s crucial that we create environments where young people feel safe to share their problems, both in our schools and at home," Serem said.
"By fostering a culture of openness and support, we can reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and prevent further tragedies. We all have a responsibility to safeguard the wellbeing of our youth and ensure they receive the care and understanding they need."
Other speakers at the event urged the youth to steer clear of pitfalls like drug abuse and alcoholism, saying they are destructive to individual lives and communities.
Through reports and statistical evidence, the youth were encouraged to embrace healthier lifestyles.
Speakers shared inspiring narratives of individuals, who transformed their passions into successful ventures, embodying the ethos of innovation and resilience. Encouraging the audience to harness their creativity and resourcefulness.
The leaders emphasised the importance of self-empowerment through entrepreneurship. Practical insights and actionable advice were offered, empowering youths to explore avenues for economic independence and contribute meaningfully to society.
In a globalised world teeming with opportunities, the event served as a beacon of enlightenment, illuminating pathways to success beyond borders.
The leaders expressed that there are many possibilities out there, from educational pursuits to career advancement. Through firsthand accounts, an expert explained that while out there, they should seize