Integrating Psychosocial Support for Children in the Education Sector in Zambia: Lessons from the Programme Implementation Process.

Journal: Community mental health journal

Volume: 56

Issue: 7

Year of Publication: 2021

Affiliated Institutions:  School of Public Health, University of Zambia, P.O. Box , Lusaka, Zambia. josephmumbazulu@gmail.com. School of Education, University of Zambia, P.O. Box , Lusaka, Zambia. Regional Psychosocial Support Initiative, Regional Office, Randburg, South Africa. Regional Psychosocial Support Initiative, Lusaka, Zambia.

Abstract summary 

Literature suggests that psychosocial support programmes can improve wellbeing and mental health among learners. There is however limited documentation on methodologies and factors that shape integration of such programmes within the education sector. This qualitative study aimed to contribute towards addressing this knowledge gap by analysing the implementation process of the Mainstreaming of Psychosocial Support in the Education Sector programme in Zambia. The study showed that the programme contributed to improved school culture and learning involvement. This transformation led to reduction in school dropout, as well as improved students' wellbeing and performance. These positive results motivated Zambia and other countries to integrate psychosocial support into the education systems. Community engagement, outreach activities, group forums and partnerships were the key programme methodologies that facilitated the integration process. However, limited stakeholder involvement in developing the monitoring process complicated the integration process in the initial stages. In conclusion, effectively facilitating programme integration requires ensuring that the programme is credible, inclusive and has clear implementation guidelines.

Authors & Co-authors:  Zulu Joseph M JM Munsaka Ecloss E Okonji Emeka E Gaillard Carmel C Ngoma Kelvin K Mwamba Mukuka M Mudekunye Lynette L

Study Outcome 

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Statistics
Citations : 
Authors :  7
Identifiers
Doi : 10.1007/s10597-020-00682-9
SSN : 1573-2789
Study Population
Male,Female
Mesh Terms
Child
Other Terms
Education sector;Integration;Mental health;Psychosocial support programmes
Study Design
Study Approach
Qualitative
Country of Study
Zambia
Publication Country
United States