Teachers and Principals Trained to Support Students’ Mental Health

Feb 17, 2025 | News | 0

Seventy-five participants, including teachers, principals, sports teachers, and counselors from schools in Port Vila and rural Efate, attended a three-day training on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) this week.

The training, held at the Melanesian Hotel Conference Room, was the first of its kind and was organized through the support of the Ministry of Education and its partners.

According to Kalo Noel Benjamin, the SHEFA Provincial Office Sports Coordinator, the training is crucial, especially as the country faces frequent disasters. He highlighted that mental health plays a significant role in helping children stabilize their thoughts to perform well in school, particularly as the new academic year begins.

“Recently, we experienced an earthquake that traumatized many children. They are still fearful due to the aftershocks, and their ability to focus in class has been affected. This training aims to equip teachers and school leaders with the skills to support students in overcoming these challenges,” Benjamin said.

The program is designed to help schools, particularly those affected by the recent earthquake, by providing principals, teachers, pastors, and counselors with strategies to handle students’ mental well-being. Beyond disaster-related trauma, schools face various social and emotional issues, making this training essential in guiding students toward academic success and emotional stability.

Jimmy Yamaimai, an administrative staff member of Freedom School and Freedom Education Authority, emphasized the importance of the training in addressing the mental health needs of students. He noted that while teachers focus heavily on subjects like mathematics and language, there is often little emphasis on creating a safe and supportive environment for students.

“Many teachers are not trained to handle trauma and stress in children. This workshop is essential because it equips school staff with the confidence and responsibility to provide a safe space for students,” Yamaimai said.

He added that both private and government schools, regardless of their social background, would benefit from such programs. With learning disrupted due to the earthquake, this initiative is seen as a step towards strengthening teachers’ ability to support students and improve academic outcomes in SHEFA Province.

While the training has started with schools in Port Vila and rural Efate, organizers hope to expand the program to other parts of SHEFA, ensuring that more schools receive the necessary tools to support students’ mental health and well-being.

SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST

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