Kampala, Uganda — Mental health is taking center stage this September as Kampala International University (KIU) School of Law officially kicks off its annual Law Students Society Week 2025, under the theme “Mental Health Matters.” Running from 15th to 21st September, the week will culminate in a high-impact Mental Health Run on 28th September, aimed at rallying students, staff, and the broader community around the cause of mental well-being.
The week-long series of events blends academic rigor, sportsmanship, and wellness advocacy—offering a holistic approach to student development. It comes at a time when mental health concerns are rising across Ugandan universities, with recent incidents highlighting the urgent need for intervention and support.
Mooting Minds: Law Meets Practice
One of the most anticipated highlights of the week is the KIU Inter-Firm Moot Court Competition, scheduled for 16th to 18th September. This prestigious legal battle will pit student-led law firms against one another in simulated courtroom proceedings, judged by seasoned lecturers and legal practitioners.
Mooting is a flagship activity for KIU’s School of Law, known for producing top-performing students in national and regional moot competitions. The Inter-Firm Moot offers students a vital bridge between theory and practical legal skills—cultivating advocacy, legal research, and confidence.
Wellness on the Field: Sports Gala
From 19th to 21st September, the focus will shift to the Sports Gala, an energetic display of teamwork and friendly rivalry. Students will participate in football, volleyball, chess, tug of war, and rope pulling—activities carefully curated to foster wellness and alleviate academic stress.
“These games are more than just fun,” said Sam Bujiri, President of the KIU Law Society. “They remind us that mental wellness is deeply connected to physical activity, teamwork, and balance.”
A Week of Awareness, A Call to Action
The Law Students Society Week is not just about events—it’s a platform for change. The theme, “Mental Health Matters,” was chosen deliberately, reflecting growing concern over the mental health crisis among students.
Dr. Kisubi Esther Christine, Dean of the KIU School of Law, noted the urgency of addressing the silent struggles within university communities.
“We’ve lost students to suicide. We’ve seen anxiety skyrocket, especially around exams and financial stress,” she shared. “The pressure of law school is immense. Many students suffer in silence, fearing judgment. We want to send a clear message: You are not alone. Help is available, and we are listening.”
The week will feature mental health talks, peer support sessions, and workshops facilitated by counselors and mental health advocates. A critical intervention includes the deployment of dedicated counselors within the university, alongside a clear framework for referral and support.
Expert Insight: A National Mental Health Crisis
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Hillary Irimaso, a psychiatrist and President of the Uganda Psychiatric Association. He emphasized the magnitude of the mental health burden in Uganda, noting that 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health disorder at some point in their lives.
“The tragedy is that most people don’t even know they’re struggling. Stigma, lack of awareness, and limited access to mental health services keep people from seeking help,” Dr. Irimaso said.
“Universities must become safe spaces. We need structures in place—trained professionals, awareness programs, and supportive environments that encourage openness and compassion.”
A Culminating Event: The Mental Health Run
The week will officially close with the KIU Mental Health Run on 28th September. The run is more than symbolic—it’s a community-wide call to action, bringing together students, faculty, and the public in a united stand against stigma.
Sam Bujiri, speaking on the role of law students in the movement, added:
“As future lawyers, we’re not just preparing to practice law—we’re learning to advocate for humanity. Mental health is a legal issue, a social issue, and a personal one. We’re proud to lead from the front.”
