A new mental health and counseling programme to provide counseling and other human-centered services has been launched at ceremony in Accra by TUCEE Institute of Technology.

The launch coincided with the institute’s graduation where many trained counselors passed out.

Known as the BADA project, the social intervention initiative seeks to create a sound mind for people going through mental or psychological problems.

The BADA Project is a dynamic initiative aimed at equipping individuals with disabilities with skills such as bead making, wig making, soap making, sewing, basic computer skills, videography and photography, as well as counselling training and mental health support services.

The project’s target include but not limited to adolescents and youth between the ages of 12-25, with a particular emphasis on females within this demographic.

 It is aimed at uplifting these individuals from poverty, boosting their self-confidence and also to empower them to lead fulfilling lives by providing them with these essential skills.

The BADA Project came as a result of extensive research conducted by TUCEE organization, where it identified the financial and mental health challenges faced by individuals living with disabilities.

By addressing both health and poverty-related challenges the project's aim is to contribute to the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals, specifically aligning with Goal three which focuses on good health and well-being.

The  Project focuses on ensuring healthy living and the promotion of  well-being for all ages by providing suitable mental health support services, and improving the overall well-being of people .

 The BADA Project is poised to achieve this by offering skill-based training and financial support to beneficiaries of the project, in order to empower them to overcome financial challenges and break the poverty chain.

In her address, the Principal of the institute, Dr Cecilia Tutu-Danquah tasked the new counselors to discharge their duties efficiently.

She said their role as counsellors is not to provide solution to all problems but to facilitate a process where individuals can discover their own strengths and resilience even in their challenges adding that in  the process of guiding others they should not lose sight of self-reflection and self-care.

She further stressed that they have embarked on a journey which does not only require intellectual aptitude but also qualities such as emotional intelligence, genuine compassion, and deep understanding of human vulnerabilities.

“As counsellors, you are entrusted with the delicate task of helping others navigate the complex issues of mental health and psychological well-being”said Dr Cecilia Tutu-Danquah.

Dr Tutu-Danquah explained to them that their utmost motivation is the strength and comfort they could provide to everyone that comes their way.

She, however, explained that counselling is about fostering an environment where individuals feel empowered to share their fears, insecurities, and uncertainties without fear of judgment and rejection.