Global pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson has formalized a partnership with the University of Ghana through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), aimed at strengthening mental health interventions within the university community, with a special focus on schizophrenia.
The signing ceremony brought together key stakeholders, including the Vice Chancellor, Registrar, Senior Assistant Registrar of the Public Affairs Directorate, Director of the Careers and Counselling Centre, university partners, and representatives from Johnson & Johnson.
Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential.
“We must leverage every available resource to ensure our university community is mentally healthy. I am hopeful that this initiative will bring real change not just to our students and staff, but to the wider society as well.”
Country Manager of Johnson & Johnson, Emmanuel Asante Antwi, emphasized the company’s commitment to creating sustainable solutions in mental health through partnerships.
“We’ve taken it upon ourselves to support individuals living with mental health conditions. That can only be effective through collaboration with strategic stakeholders like the University of Ghana. Sustainability is central to our mission, and we aim to reinforce existing mental health structures to make a meaningful impact.”
He also called on other stakeholders to contribute to the broader cause.
“This is a call to action for all NGOs and relevant institutions to join forces with us in addressing the pressing issue of mental health.”
In an interview with Univers News, Director of the Careers and Counselling Centre, Rev. Dr. Bridget Ben-Naimah, shed light on the objectives of the collaboration.
“They’re coming on board to support some of our mental health-related programs. What’s particularly noteworthy is their focus on schizophrenia—a condition often misunderstood. Schizophrenia, like any other ailment, can be managed with the right medication and support. Johnson & Johnson will help with capacity building, medication provision, and support for ongoing initiatives.”
The partnership is expected to drive awareness, treatment, and long-term support for mental health conditions, contributing to a more inclusive and supportive academic environment.
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Story by: Edward Chika | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by: Wahab Abdul Razak
