Collaboration Between University of Ghana, Kings College London, and University of Zimbabwe Paves the Way for Interventionist Training and Research Team Preparation.
The Y-Mind study team at the Navrongo Health Research Centre (NHRC), in collaboration with partners from the University of Ghana, Kings College London, and the University of Zimbabwe, successfully conducted a comprehensive 5-day training program.
The training, held from April 22nd to April 26th, 2024, brought together Guidance and Counselling tutors from the targeted Senior High Schools in the municipality and the research team in preparation for the upcoming internship and pilot phases of the study.
The objective of the workshop was to understand the aims of the pilot trial and trial methodology which included the processes for screening, recruitment, and follow-up.
The Y-Mind study, an intervention-based study aimed at addressing mental health challenges among youth, represents a collaborative effort between multiple institutions and countries. With a focus on providing effective guidance and counselling interventions, the study seeks to improve the mental well-being of young people in diverse settings.
At the opening ceremony of the training, Dr. Samuel Chatio, a Senior Research fellow with the Social Science Department of NHRC, gave an opening statement on behalf of the director. He expressed his enthusiasm for the collaborative efforts and the potential impact of the Y – Mind Study. He remarked that mental health is a critical issue facing our youth today, and initiatives like the Y-Mind study are essential for addressing these challenges.
Throughout the training, participants and facilitators of the workshop engaged in a variety of interactive sessions and practical exercises covering topics such as recognizing common mental health disorders, administering the Patient Health Questionnaire, counselling skills and techniques, understanding the study design, and other ethical considerations.
The Y-MIND Study Team
The Y-MIND study has Dr. Raymond Aborigo as the co-investigator and lead, and Dr. Fabian Achana as the project manager from NHRC. Facilitators from the collaborating institutions provided expert guidance and shared valuable insights, drawing on their extensive experience and expertise in the field.
Visiting collaborators from Kings College London included, the principal investigator Professor Melanie Abas, Dr. Zoe Maiden, a clinical psychologist, the project manager Rebecca Jopling and Lucy Owusu a PhD student.
Dr. Primrose Nyamayaro and Tarisai Bere were facilitators from the University of Zimbabwe. The training team also included Dr. Benedict Weobong, the principal investigator for the study in Ghana, Dr. Franklin Glozah, a co-investigator, Kenneth Adde, a project manager, and Maria Anyorikea a PhD Student all from the University of Ghana.
As the Y-Mind study enters its next phase, the collaboration between the Navrongo Health Research Centre, University of Ghana, Kings College London, and the University of Zimbabwe continues to exemplify the collective power of international partnerships in addressing global health challenges. With a shared commitment to promoting mental well-being among youth, the stage is set for meaningful progress and positive change.