Blog
A student’s behaviour does not always tell the whole story. Behind withdrawal, difficulty concentrating or a sudden outburst may be worries that a child struggles to express. Knowing how to notice, listen and respond can help teachers offer the support that students need.
From 12–15 October 2026, SEMBE brought together 19 teachers from 14 primary and secondary schools in the communities of Makoulahe, Kolofata, Kourgui, Ouro-Kessoum, Maxi-Mabass, Koza, Pitoare, Salak and Meskine, for training on mental health promotion in schools.
The training which took place in Maroua involved practical exercises, discussions and role plays, enabling teachers to learn how to recognise signs of distress, listen without judgement, provide basic psychosocial support and connect students with specialised help when needed.
For one participant, the training prompted a change in perspective. She explained that she had previously been quick to condemn inappropriate behaviour. She now recognised the importance of understanding its causes and considering how to help the child.
The lessons also reached beyond her professional role:
“What is also important about this training is that it is not limited to school. It will also help us in our own lives and in our families.” – She said
Another teacher described the challenges of working amid insecurity, where adults and children alike experience fear and anxiety. He emphasised the importance of working with school leadership and colleagues to introduce more supportive approaches.
“I will do my best to put into practice some of the concepts we have learned here.” he said.
A third participant reflected on the need to consider students’ emotional experiences throughout everyday teaching:
“We need to take into account that some children have experienced trauma, and this should be reflected in the lesson.” she said.
These commitments will take shape through mental health and wellbeing clubs, where students can talk, play, create and connect while learning to care for themselves and support one another. Regular school awareness activities will help reduce stigma and encourage students to seek help.
To support these activities, SEMBE has provided **learning and play materials to 14 schools across nine communities**, giving teachers practical resources to make club sessions engaging and participatory.
Since 2021 Sembe has trained some 51 teachers on Mental health promotion in the school milieu, with over 5000 students benefitting from school mental health club activities.
