News
Partners call for stronger mental-health and SRHR services in universities
14 May 2026
A national student conference urged universities, government and partners to move from awareness campaigns towards coordinated, adequately funded and youth-friendly campus health services.
University students, government officials, civil-society organisations and development partners gathered at Kyambogo University for the National Students Conference under the theme "Institutionalizing Students Health — From Awareness to Action".
Organised by the Own Your Future Initiative, the conference brought together participants from Makerere University, Uganda Christian University, Kyambogo University and other institutions, alongside representatives of the ministries responsible for education, health and gender. UNFPA, Naguru Teenage Centre and Marie Stopes Uganda were among the participating partners.
Speakers highlighted interconnected concerns affecting university students, including mental health, HIV vulnerability, limited access to sexual and reproductive health information and services, gender-based violence, harassment and substance-use risks. The discussion emphasised that awareness without accessible services, clear guidelines, referral pathways and supportive providers is insufficient.
Participants also stressed that provider attitudes influence whether young people feel safe seeking help. Respectful, confidential and non-judgemental care is particularly important when students ask about contraception, HIV, mental health, relationships or violence.
NTC's contribution called for closer collaboration between ministries, universities and civil society, as well as stronger guidance for health and well-being within higher education. Government representatives reaffirmed the importance of age-appropriate health and life-skills education delivered by qualified people.
The conference concluded with calls for stronger policy direction, sustained advocacy, more investment and integrated student-health systems that respond to the realities of campus life.
Key takeaway: Universities need more than occasional awareness events. Students require accessible services, trained and respectful providers, clear referrals, mental-health support and institutional accountability.