By Wole Adedoyin
As part of its initiative to impact lives positively through education and mental health awareness, the Lit Media and Arts Hub (LIMAH) visited a school in Ojoo, Akinyele Local Government Area, Oyo State, on November 22, 2024.
This visit marked a key step in the organization’s ongoing project to support schools across three local government areas of the state.
The programme, which commenced at 12 PM in the school premises, was centered on an arts-aided mental health sensitization campaign aimed at fostering mental wellness among young students.
The event featured Mrs. Oluwasola Rauf, a renowned social advocate, who delivered a powerful address on dispelling myths and misconceptions about mental health. Her session inspired thought-provoking questions from the students, reflecting their curiosity and eagerness to learn more about mental wellness. Mrs. Rauf emphasized the importance of open communication in tackling fears, anxieties, and worries, stating that mental illnesses thrive in isolation.
Mrs. Rauf’s interaction created a safe space for the students, allowing them to share their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. She stressed the need for psychological support in schools, highlighting how addressing emotional and mental health challenges can significantly enhance students’ overall well-being and academic performance.
Adding a creative dimension to the program, Mr. Akinola Sesan, an award-winning poet and advocate for bibliotherapy, used literature and poetry to engage the students on mental health issues. He read excerpts from his debut poetry collection, which resonated deeply with the audience. Mr. Sesan believes that literature serves as a powerful tool in mental health practice, offering comfort and perspective to those in distress.
The program culminated in a collaborative effort to equip the school with resources to sustain the mental health advocacy. LIMAH donated books, writing materials, and mental health literature to the school, ensuring that students and teachers alike have access to tools that promote psychological well-being.
In addition to the material donations, both Mrs. Rauf and Mr. Sesan left their contact information with the school management to facilitate future engagements. They expressed their commitment to supporting the students and staff with ongoing discussions and mental health programs tailored to their needs.
The students and staff expressed their heartfelt gratitude to LIMAH for the initiative, describing the program as both impactful and enlightening. The principal of the school commended LIMAH’s innovative approach, stating that integrating arts into mental health sensitization is an effective way to address these issues in young minds.
The visit to Ojoo is part of LIMAH’s broader vision to empower communities through education and advocacy. By addressing mental health issues in schools, LIMAH seeks to create a ripple effect that fosters resilience, emotional intelligence, and a mentally healthy population.
