The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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By: Nyanaciek Malual
What’s happening in Kenyan universities today is deeply alarming. In just the past two months, more than a dozen students from the University of Nairobi have died by suicide.
Sadly, this tragedy isn’t confined to UoN—it’s happening across the country, with increasing reports of student deaths and disappearances.
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Several factors are driving this silent crisis: mental health challenges, university strikes, academic pressure, financial struggles, relationship and family issues, as well as drug and substance abuse.
Mental Health
Depression and anxiety have become common among students, often triggered by stress from school, finances, or personal issues. When the mind is overwhelmed and lacks peace, thoughts of self-harm can emerge. Universities must strengthen their mental health departments, ensure counselling is accessible, and encourage students to speak out. Parents, siblings, and friends should also make an effort to check in regularly—simple conversations can save lives.
University Strikes
Ongoing strikes in public universities have left many students stranded and uncertain about their future. Imagine being in your final semester, ready to graduate, only for learning to halt indefinitely due to unpaid lecturers. The resulting frustration and loss of direction can take a heavy emotional toll.
Academic Pressure and Expectations
The pressure to succeed—especially from family and society—can be suffocating. Many students feel the weight of entire communities expecting them to excel. When performance falls short, they internalize the failure. It’s important to remember: do your best within your abilities and avoid burdening yourself with unrealistic expectations.
Financial and Economic Struggles
The high cost of living has hit students hard. Many go hungry not by choice, but because they simply can’t afford a meal. Parents should check in on their children frequently—sometimes even a small amount of money can make a big difference in keeping them going.
Family Conflicts and Relationship Strain
Family disagreements, lack of emotional support, and relationship breakups can deeply wound students. Feeling unloved, rejected, or isolated can push someone into despair. A simple call or text to a student can go a long way—it shows care, connection, and can prevent a tragedy.
The silent pandemic of student suicides is real, and it’s growing. Let’s not wait until it claims someone close to us. Listen, reach out, and act with compassion—because your call, your visit, or your message might just save a life.
Nyanaciek Malual, is Journalism Student at MKU
