The Catholic University of Zimbabwe (CUZ) recently welcomed Dr. Guy Adjadji, a Missio Representative from Germany, for an important engagement focused on the implementation and progress of the Psycho-Spiritual Social Support Program (PSSSP).

Dr. Adjadji was invited by CUZ to visit the University and monitor the implementation of the project on the ground, engage with those involved and provide guidance and advice to strengthen its impact. His visit provided an important opportunity to connect the vision of the program with its practical implementation and to reflect on how the initiative can continue responding effectively to the needs of the communities it serves.

Supporting the Whole Person

The Psycho-Spiritual Social Support Program (PSSSP) is a major initiative aimed at promoting holistic well-being by bringing together psychological, spiritual and social support. The program recognises that true human development goes beyond academic or professional achievement and must also consider the emotional, spiritual and social dimensions of life.

Launched at CUZ in November 2024, the program was established as a national academic and experiential initiative integrating psychotherapy and spiritual therapy to promote holistic healing and competence in mental health and wellness. It is implemented by CUZ in collaboration with the Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference (ZCBC) and seeks to equip pastoral agents and other professionals with skills to support individuals and communities facing a range of emotional, social and spiritual challenges.

Taking the Mission Beyond the Classroom

Dr. Adjadji’s visit provided an opportunity to see the work of PSSSP beyond its plans and documents and to engage with its implementation on the ground. His role included monitoring progress, understanding the experiences emerging from the project and offering advice that can contribute to effective implementation and sustainable outcomes.

The engagement also reinforces the importance of partnership in advancing initiatives that seek to bring meaningful change to people’s lives. Through collaboration between CUZ, Missio and Church structures, the program continues to benefit from shared expertise, reflection and support.

The PSSSP responds to a growing need for approaches that recognise the interconnectedness of the mind, body, spirit and community. Its work has relevance across universities, schools, parishes, workplaces, hospitals and other communities where individuals may require guidance, counselling and supportive spaces.

Strengthening Impact Through Partnership

For CUZ, the engagement with Dr. Adjadji represents an important part of the University’s commitment to accountability, continuous learning and effective project implementation. Monitoring visits such as this provide an opportunity to identify progress, reflect on challenges and strengthen strategies for achieving the program’s objectives.

The University’s Psycho-Spiritual Social Support Centre also forms part of this broader vision, providing counselling services to students and surrounding communities, with plans to extend similar services through diocesan structures.

As the PSSSP continues to grow, CUZ remains committed to building partnerships that strengthen its capacity to serve society. The visit by Dr. Guy Adjadji is therefore a valuable reminder that meaningful transformation is built through collaboration, shared responsibility and a commitment to walking with people through the challenges they face.

Through the PSSSP, the Catholic University of Zimbabwe continues to advance an important vision: education that not only develops knowledge and skills, but also promotes healing, resilience, spiritual growth and the well-being of the whole person.