Academic City University, as part of its commitment to promote holistic well-being, organised a health screening exercise for its students and Haatso community residents. The exercise formed part of the university's Annual Health Week Celebration.
The week-long programme included a variety of health-related activities such as interactive discussions and wellness workshops. These sessions generated meaningful discussions among students, staff and community members about mental health, anxiety and self-diagnosis, personal hygiene, sex education, drug usage and overall physical well-being.
Professional health personnel were on hand to perform thorough medical consultations, administer necessary medications, and offer essential health education to participants. The screening covered malaria testing, hepatitis B, diabetes, eye examinations, and other essential health checks.
The initiative, which was supported by Glico, Canaryblue Laboratories and Diagnostics, North Legon Hospital, Kyikyi Eyewear and Just Ask Pharmacy, aimed not only to address immediate health concerns but also to promote long-term wellness among students and residents within the university’s surrounding communities.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Amanda Kwakye, Physician Assistant at Academic City, emphasised the significance of the exercise, saying, "At Academic City, we believe that a healthy student is a productive student." We provide important screenings and education during Health Week to encourage students and the community to take care of their own health. Academic stress can have a negative impact on students, thus mental wellness is especially important."
She further explained that this year’s focus on sex education, hygiene and mental wellness ensures students and community members alike are equipped with the tools and resources needed to better manage their mental health.
Also speaking at the event, the Dean of Students and Community Affairs, Dr. Abena Engmann, reiterated the university’s broader vision of nurturing holistic leaders.
“Academic City is more than just an academic institution. We are a community that cares for the total well-being of our students and the environment in which we operate. The Health Week initiative is a key part of our mission to develop future leaders who are not only intellectually sound but also physically and mentally resilient,” she said.
A cross section of participants.