The University of Ghana is in mourning following the alleged suicide of a third-year medical student, whose disappearance and death on November 15, 2025, have intensified the national conversation on student mental health.
The tragedy comes at a time when the Mental Health Authority has confirmed a total of 175 suicide cases in just the first half of 2025—a figure mental health professionals describe as deeply troubling.
One multi-university study even reports lifetime prevalence rates of suicidal behaviours among students as 15.2% for ideation and 6.3% for attempts.
In the wake of this latest incident at the University of Ghana, renewed scrutiny has fallen on the University of Ghana SRC General Assembly because of its handling of the Mental Health and Wellness Bill.
The bill, which seeks to address the growing mental health challenges faced by students at the University of Ghana, aims to establish a student-led board under the Student Representative Council (SRC) to collaborate with the University of Ghana Careers and Counselling Directorate (UGCCD), advocate for improved mental health services, and organise initiatives that promote mental wellness.
By doing so, the bill will ensure that students receive the necessary support, reduce the stigma associated with seeking help, and foster a culture that prioritises mental well-being.
Yet, despite several attempts to get this bill tabled before the General Assembly, it was never presented—not even once.
Ironically, the only bill presented before the House in the 2024/25 academic year was the Course Rep Council Bill.
The big question remains: Why did a bill focused on saving lives fail to receive attention, while political and administrative issues dominated the agenda? Will the new crop of SRC and General Assembly leaders take steps to revive it?
This bill does not seek to replace the work of the UGCCD but to complement it and make mental health support more student-friendly. Statistics show that universities cannot afford any further delay.
Rising suicide rates among young adults demand immediate structural reforms and stronger support systems—not political gridlock from our student leadership.
As the UG community grapples with yet another loss, the spotlight is back on the SRC, and the question lingers: Will student leaders finally prioritise the Mental Health and Wellness Bill, or will the cycle of neglect continue?
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Story by Paa Kwesi Abel | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Gabriel Tecco Mensah
