Patrick Wechuli, founder of OKOA NDUME, has called for increased mental health awareness among male university students, urging young men to abandon the culture of silence surrounding emotional struggles and seek help whenever necessary.


Speaking during Mental Health Day, Wechuli highlighted the growing challenges facing young men in universities, including academic pressure, financial difficulties, family expectations and the fear of failure. He noted that beneath the appearance of confidence and ambition, many students silently struggle with emotional distress.


According to Wechuli, societal expectations that men should remain emotionally strong have contributed to a culture in which young men are discouraged from expressing their feelings or seeking professional support. He warned that the popular instruction to “man up” often forces men to conceal their struggles instead of addressing them.


Through OKOA NDUME, an initiative focused on promoting male mental health and preventing suicide among boys, Wechuli is advocating for a shift in how society approaches men's emotional well-being.


The initiative operates under the slogan, “No More Suicide in Boys,” with its interventions centred on three key areas: challenging stigma, encouraging help-seeking behaviour and equipping young men with practical mental health skills.


Wechuli explained that OKOA NDUME seeks to create safe spaces where men can openly discuss their experiences without fear of judgement. The initiative also aims to challenge misconceptions that crying or asking for help is a sign of weakness, instead presenting these actions as expressions of courage and self-awareness.


Additionally, OKOA NDUME plans to introduce practical workshops focusing on stress management, emotional regulation and building supportive relationships among young men.


Wechuli encouraged students experiencing emotional difficulties to recognise their worth and understand that they do not have to confront their challenges alone.


His message underscored the importance of solidarity, empathy and collective responsibility in preventing suicide and promoting mental wellness among young men.


As universities continue to nurture future leaders, the OKOA NDUME initiative calls for communities to prioritise mental health and foster environments where seeking support is accepted, encouraged and accessible.