Emmanuel Ahmadu, who wrote WASSCE 17 times, to lead mental health tour in US
By Jeffrey Agbo
A Nigerian graduate, Emmanuel Ahmadu, who sat for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) 17 times, will be leading a mental health awareness tour tagged “Resilience Rise” across Northeast Ohio in the United States.
Ahmadu told NAN on Tuesday that the initiative is aimed at addressing mental health issues among students.
The initiative was thought-out in collaboration with Triumphators LLC and supported by the Department of Education and other stakeholders.
He said, “The tour will engage high schools and colleges across the region, providing students with the tools and inspiration needed to overcome personal adversities and thrive both academically and personally.
“The ‘Resilience Rise’ tour is a significant step in my ongoing efforts to combat the high trend of social vices, depression, and suicide, which have silenced the hopes of young people who are the future of society.
“With nearly one in five Ohio students reporting persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and depression; and suicide being the second leading cause of death among Ohioans aged 10-24, the need for such a programme has never been more urgent.
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“By bringing this initiative to Northeast Ohio, we aim to ensure that students are equipped with mental resilience, supportive networks, and access to community resources.”
Reflecting on his experiences, Ahmadu said that his journey from a turbulent childhood to becoming a beacon of hope was both inspiring and instructive.
“Despite attending 16 primary schools and 14 secondary schools, and sitting for my O’level exams 17 times, I was determined and persevered to graduate with a Degree in Mass Communication from the University of Benin.
“And, I graduated as an outstanding student in the university.
“My story is a testament to the power of resilience, and through the ‘Resilience Rise’ tour, I seek to instill this same spirit in the next generation of leaders and achievers through their life journeys.
“We are confident that the tour will not only instill in students a deep sense of hope and resilience for their future but also equip them with the mental strength, supportive networks, and community resources needed to overcome personal challenges.
“This programme aims to help students thrive academically and personally, empowering them to become future champions of positive change in society,” he told NAN.
On June 8, Ahmadu received an honorary Doctorate Degree in International Affairs (DIA) from Global Seminary University, New York, in collaboration with GEPEA University, Portugal.
The recognition acknowledged his significant contributions to promoting peace, sustainable mental wellness and hope globally.