Under the title, “Building Sustainable Ecosystems of Care: Practitioner Wellbeing, Neurodiversity, and Structural Support in Higher Education,”   the colloquium brought together academics, practitioners, and higher education stakeholders to explore strategies for fostering inclusive and sustainable approaches to mental health and well-being within universities. Discussions also centred on the wellbeing of health practitioners, based on the statement “You cannot pour from an empty cup”. Further updates and highlights from this colloquium were shared with SOPH colleagues at the weekly journal club that is coordinated by Dr Takunda Satumba, Dr Palesa Likoti, and Ms Ulla Walmisley (the JC Team).

Representing SOPH, Dr Satumba presented on “Understanding Factors Affecting the Mental Well-being of Adolescent Girls.” His presentation examined the complex social and structural factors that influence the mental well-being of adolescent girls, highlighting how these challenges may be further exacerbated by unplanned pregnancy and HIV infection. Dr Satumba also discussed the important role that higher education institutions can play in supporting young people as they transition from secondary school to tertiary education, emphasizing the need for responsive institutional policies, accessible mental health services, and supportive learning environments that promote student well-being.

The presentation forms part of broader research that explores the intersection of teenage pregnancy, HIV, and mental health, conducted by Professor Hanani Tabana, Dr Martina Lembani, Dr Linda Shuro, and Dr Satumba. This work seeks to deepen understanding of adolescent mental health within the South African context and generate evidence to inform policies and interventions that improve health and well-being outcomes for young people. SOPH is proud to have been part of this year’s UWC Mental Health and Well-being Colloquium and to contribute to these important conversations.