Franco-British International University (FBIU), Kaduna, has organised a mental health awareness session to educate students on emotional intelligence and encourage them to seek professional support when necessary.

The session, held at Ali Dauda Hall, was themed “It’s Okay Not to Be Okay.”

A medical doctor and mental health expert, Dr. Abdul Malik Bello, facilitated the session, which addressed common challenges faced by students, including stress, academic pressure, tiredness and low motivation.

Dr. Bello urged students to acknowledge their feelings and recognise their limits, noting that experiencing emotional difficulties does not make them weak.

He also discussed personal boundaries, self-respect, healthy relationships, confidence, identity and personal growth, stressing the importance of mutual respect and effective communication.

The session further addressed dyslexia, autism and neurodiversity, with emphasis on understanding individual differences and promoting inclusive environments.

Dr. Bello encouraged students to seek professional help when necessary, adding that asking for support should not be regarded as a sign of weakness.

Also speaking, Khadija Dantata, a psychology graduate and expert in mental health, behavioural support and inclusive learning, said students should not feel ashamed when experiencing emotional difficulties or academic pressure.

She encouraged students to recognise that people have different experiences and coping abilities, while emphasising the need for a supportive environment where they can express their concerns without fear of judgment.

Dantata also highlighted the importance of listening to students, acknowledging their experiences and providing appropriate guidance to support their emotional well-being.

During the session, participants asked questions and shared their views on mental health, discussing the challenges students face and the need for a supportive environment where they can express their concerns without fear of judgment.

In his closing remarks, the Vice President Administration, Mr Agwaza Bemdoo, thanked the university leadership for supporting the programme.

He also thanked the participants for their engagement and appreciated the speakers for sharing their knowledge and expertise, reaffirming the university’s commitment to providing students with more opportunities to learn about issues affecting their well-being.