By Richard Benjamin
Prioritising mental health during the early years is critical to helping children achieve excellence in school and later in life, an expert has said.
The National Coordinator of the National Mental Health Programme, Dr Tunde Masseyferguson, said this on Monday, July 20, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sidelines of the graduation ceremony of Gold Spring International School in Gwagwalada, Federal Capital Territory.
Masseyferguson said children performed better academically and socially when learning environments supported their emotional well-being and protected them from stress, violence and neglect.
“Every child has the right to learn in a safe, inclusive and supportive environment. When we address mental health early, we lay the foundation for excellence, resilience and healthy development,” he said.
He urged parents, teachers and school administrators to recognise signs of distress in children, promote open communication and create safe spaces where they could speak without fear.
According to him, building confidence, teamwork and respect among learners could help prevent bullying and other risk factors affecting mental health.
Masseyferguson commended schools integrating child protection and safeguarding practices into their daily activities.
He said the National Mental Health Programme would continue to partner with education stakeholders to strengthen support systems for young learners.
He also advised graduating students to prioritise self-care, seek help when necessary and support one another as they moved to the next phase of their education.
The Proprietress of Gold Spring International School, Mrs Nneoma Ejiofor, said the school had adopted policies that placed the mental and emotional well-being of children at the centre of learning.
Ejiofor said the school organised guidance and counselling sessions, peer support clubs and regular teacher training to help staff identify and respond to signs of distress among learners.
“We believe excellence goes beyond academics. A child who feels safe, heard and valued will naturally excel.
“That is why we have created safe spaces for our children to speak out and build confidence,” she said.
Ejiofor added that the school would continue to partner with health professionals and government programmes to strengthen child protection and mental health support within the school community.
