Ministry of Education launches peer education program to empower youths

The Health and Family Life Education (HFLE) Unit of the Ministry of Education, through its School Support Services Division, has launched a Peer Education Program for in-school youths, aiming to promote mental health awareness, healthy lifestyles, and life skills development.

The program, which began in September 2025, is currently being implemented at Cummings Lodge Secondary, Richard Ishmael Secondary, and La Aventure Secondary Schools. Each school hosted a two-day interactive workshop, engaging students in practical and reflective learning sessions.

The initiative encourages trained in-school youths to become advocates for positive lifestyle choices, mental wellness, and resilience in facing everyday challenges. Participants explore modules such as Being a Peer Helper, Violence and Mental Health, Coping with Change and Loss, Understanding Mental Health and Wellness, and key issues like substance abuse, depression, and suicide. The sessions are designed to develop essential communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills among students.

A key feature of the program is the establishment of School Health Clubs, which will provide student-led spaces to promote well-being, foster peer support, and sustain health education initiatives within each school community.

Through the Peer Education Program, the Ministry of Education reinforces its commitment to the holistic development of students, ensuring they are prepared not only academically, but also emotionally and socially, for a balanced and productive life.