Catholic University of Zimbabwe students have taken an important step towards promoting mental health awareness and emotional well-being in their communities after participating in the Friendship Bench in a Box training workshop held at Women’s University in Africa (WUA).

The five-day workshop, held from Monday to Friday last week, brought together students from the Catholic University of Zimbabwe (CUZ), Morgen Zintech College and Women’s University in Africa. The CUZ delegation was led by Mr Madongorere.

The training introduced students to the principles of talk therapy, counselling and peer support, equipping them with practical knowledge and skills to support individuals experiencing emotional distress. Participants received Friendship Bench training from Levels 1 to 3, preparing them to serve as trained “buddies” within their respective communities.

The workshop also brought together key stakeholders, including the Tertiary Education Council, represented by Mrs Mawarire, and the Mental Health Department, represented by Mr Chikobvu. Their participation highlighted the importance of collaboration in strengthening mental health awareness and support systems within tertiary institutions and communities.

Empowering Students to Support Mental Health

Through the Friendship Bench in a Box initiative, students are equipped to help bridge the gap between people experiencing emotional challenges and accessible mental health support.

As trained buddies, the participants are expected to promote empathy, active listening and meaningful human connection in their communities. The initiative recognises that supportive conversations can play an important role in helping people navigate life’s challenges and seek appropriate support.

One of the key messages emphasised during the workshop was: “There is no health without mental health.”

The statement reinforced the importance of treating mental health as an essential part of overall well-being and creating environments where people feel safe to speak openly about their experiences.

Promoting Empathy and Accessible Mental Health Support

Friendship Bench seeks to help people experiencing common mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression, through accessible, community-based support. Its vision is to make Friendship Bench services accessible to everyone within walking distance, with empathy and human connection at the heart of its approach.

The training provided students with an opportunity to understand how talk therapy and supportive conversations can contribute to emotional well-being. It also highlighted the role that young people can play in promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma and encouraging their peers to seek support when needed.

Following the completion of their assessments, the participants are expected to graduate, marking the next step in their journey as trained Friendship Bench buddies.

Building Healthier and More Supportive Communities

The participation of CUZ students in the Friendship Bench in a Box workshop reflects the value of equipping young people with skills that extend beyond the classroom. By promoting empathy, connection and mental health awareness, the initiative offers students an opportunity to contribute positively to their campus and wider communities.

As the participants prepare to complete their assessments and graduate, they carry forward an important message: mental health matters and sometimes, a supportive conversation can make a meaningful difference.

Catholic University of Zimbabwe remains committed to nurturing students who contribute to the well-being of society through knowledge, compassion and service.