The International Conference on Psychology and Mental Health, held at Kabarak University from October 15th to 18th, 2024, was a resounding success, bringing together 41 representatives from public and private universities across Kenya. Themed “Mental Health: A Fundamental Right for All”, this prestigious event marked a significant moment in the academic calendar, as scholars, counselors, and researchers engaged in thought-provoking discussions on mental health and psychology.
Throughout the conference, the attendees expressed their admiration for the warm hospitality extended by Kabarak University. The serene environment, coupled with the professional organization, received high praise from the guests and keynote speakers.
Dr. James Kay, Head of the Department of Psychology in the School of Education, Humanities, and Social Sciences, who served as the conference convener, delivered a closing speech, acknowledging the efforts of the university counselors, peer counselors, staff, and students in making the event a success.
The conference featured renowned keynote speakers, both in-person and virtually. Prof. G. Tongi Mugoya from the University of Alabama and Prof. Sung Seek Moon from Baylor University, delivered powerful keynote addresses, focusing on mental health advocacy and the role of higher education institutions in addressing mental health challenges.
Additionally, virtual presentations from Prof. Muthoni Mathai and Prof. Margaret Mwenje provided valuable insights into the complexities of mental health, drawing on their vast experience in psychology and counseling.
A major highlight of the conference was the presentation of 47 research papers, addressing a wide range of issues in psychology and mental health. Kabarak University’s peer counselors were particularly recognized for their eloquent presentations on the mental health challenges faced by university students, highlighting their dedication to mental health advocacy within the academic community.
Prof. Frederick B.J.A. Ngala, Dean of the School of Education, Humanities, and Social Sciences, commended the keynote and guest speakers, acknowledging their impactful contributions to the conference. He further applauded the peer counselors for their active role in addressing mental health concerns among their peers.
One of the pivotal moments of the conference was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Kabarak University and the Kenya Universities Professional Counsellors Association (KUPCA). The MoU was signed by Prof. Henry Kiplangat, PhD, MBS, OGW, Vice-Chancellor of Kabarak University, and Dr. Catherine Amulundu, PhD, Chair of KUPCA. The agreement aims to foster collaboration in advancing mental health provision and research in psychology through joint conferences, publications, and outreach initiatives.
The Vice-Chancellor expressed his appreciation to KUPCA for choosing Kabarak University as the venue for the 2024 conference and lauded the partnership as a milestone that would elevate the dialogue on mental health and destigmatize psychological issues in Kenya.
As the conference drew to a close, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose in their roles as mental health advocates. With the successful signing of the MoU, Kabarak University and KUPCA are poised to work together in organizing future conferences, promoting high-quality mental health services, and contributing to the growing body of research in psychology and mental health.
Kabarak University remains committed to serving God and humanity through holistic education, research, and outreach, and looks forward to hosting more impactful events that drive academic excellence and societal transformation.
