A thriving university community is built on more than academic excellence, it flourishes when students feel seen, heard, valued, and supported. Recognizing the growing need for student-centered mental health support, the Psychology Department at the University Medical Centre, in collaboration with the Office of the Dean of Students, successfully conducted the first cohort of the 2026 Peer Counselling Training Program in February. The initiative marked an important milestone in strengthening a culture of care, empathy, and wellbeing across the university.

The training brought together students from diverse academic backgrounds, including Certificate, Diploma, Undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD programmes. Despite their varied experiences and stages of study, participants shared a common commitment: a desire to make a positive difference in the lives of their fellow students. The programme attracted 100 registrations, reflecting a growing awareness of mental health issues and an increasing willingness among students to engage in conversations about wellbeing and support.

One particularly encouraging outcome was the strong participation from first- and second-year students, who constituted the majority of attendees. Their involvement presents a unique opportunity to cultivate a sustainable peer support network that can continue to serve the university community for years to come. By investing in students early in their academic journey, the programme is laying the foundation for a lasting culture of peer-led care and support.

Held over three Fridays in February, the training focused on equipping participants with essential helping skills and a deeper understanding of student wellbeing. Despite demanding academic schedules, many students demonstrated remarkable dedication by consistently attending the sessions while balancing coursework, assignments, and other responsibilities. Their commitment underscored the importance they place on supporting others and contributing to a healthier campus environment.

What made the experience particularly meaningful was the motivation that brought students to the programme. Many participants expressed a desire to learn how to effectively support friends and peers facing challenges, develop stronger listening and helping skills, and gain a better understanding of the mental health concerns affecting young people today. For many, the training provided their first formal introduction to counselling and mental health education, highlighting the programme’s role in both raising awareness and building practical support competencies. The impact of the training was evident in the reflections and feedback shared by participants. Students reported gaining valuable skills in active listening, responding appropriately to individuals experiencing distress, and recognizing when professional intervention or referral may be necessary. These skills not only enhance their ability to support others but also contribute to a more informed and compassionate student community.

Equally inspiring was the enthusiasm shown by participants to continue serving as peer counsellors beyond the training. Many expressed increased confidence in their ability to contribute positively to the wellbeing of fellow students, while a significant majority indicated that they would recommend the programme to others. This willingness to serve demonstrates the growing sense of shared responsibility for mental health and wellbeing within the university.

The success of the February 2026 Peer Counselling Training reflects an important reality: creating a supportive campus environment is a collective effort. While professional counselling services remain an essential component of student support, peer counselling provides an additional layer of connection, enabling students to support one another through empathy, understanding, and responsible care.

As the programme continues to grow, the Psychology Department and the Office of the Dean of Students remain committed to supporting trained peer counsellors through monthly peer support meetings and quarterly psychoeducation sessions facilitated by mental health and wellness specialists. These ongoing engagements will help strengthen skills, encourage continuous learning, and promote ethical and effective peer support practices. More than a training programme, the February 2026 Peer Counselling Training marked the beginning of a broader movement toward a more compassionate and connected university community. By empowering students to care for and support one another, the university is fostering an environment where wellbeing, belonging, and meaningful human connection remain at the heart of the student experience.

Article written by: Oscar Odhiambo