The one day event on “Mental Health issues in school children of KPK” was organized by Prime Institute of Public Health (PIPH) at Peshawar Medical College (PMC), in order to sensitize policy makers about mental issues faced by schoolchildren. The event was chaired by the Minister for Elementary & Secondary Education, Mr. Muhammad Atif Khan. Principals from public and private schools of Peshawar district, Government officials and experts from NGOs actively participated in the event.
Dr. Muhammad Fazal Zeeshan (Director, Post Graduate Programs, PIPH) while delivering his presentation provided an overview on the magnitude of mental health problems among school children in KP, and Pakistan. He also shared the details of a project funded by International Pediatric Associations Federation (IPAF) and implemented by PIPH, which was aimed at capacity building of school teachers of Peshawar in identifying mental health issues in adolescents. He also briefed the audience about qualitative and quantitative findings of the project and resulting recommendations for policy makers.
During his welcome note Prof. Dr. Najib ul Haq (Advisor Health & Education, Prime Foundation) thanked the Hon. Minister for his participation despite a very busy schedule reflecting the Minister’s commitment towards this important aspect of child development and health.
Addressing the event Chief Guest, Mr. Muhammad Atif Khan commended the initiative taken by Prime Institute of Public Health in collaboration with International Pediatrics Associations Foundation. He urged them to share the deliberations and recommendation of the day with his office for future planning.
This was followed by an open house discussion session moderated by Dr. Ihasnul Haq (Director Health Policy & Research, PIPH). Stakeholders including school principals, psychiatrists, psychologists, teachers, Education department representatives and experts from Prime Foundation shared their views on the matter, discussed problems and advocated possible solutions. Prof. Amin Jan (Provincial President, Pakistan Pediatrics Association) in his concluding remarks appreciated the project and hoped that PIPH and PPA will join hands to contribute towards solution of the problem in KPK in close consult with schools, Education department and Health department. The occasion was also addressed by Mr. Aqeel Razzaq (President, Private Education Network). At the end Dr. Saeed Anwar and Dr. Ihsanul Haq awarded shield and certificates to the representatives of the schools who participated in the project and other distinguished guests.
