In recent times, the act of suicide seems to have become an attractive commodity for people suffering from depression, obsession and desperation among other psychological problems.
Some people have been embarking on a suicide mission as a corrective measure for challenges confronting them.
Recently, news about a student at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) hanging herself to death went viral and utterly shocked the nation as they thought about reasons that might have accounted the victim's act.
Following the KNUST incident, there were disheartening reports about another student at the University of Ghana who had allegedly committed suicide by jumping over her balcony.
Other cases were reported and this has led to various discussions on causes of the suicide.
Thursday edition of Peace FM's 'Kokrokoo' saw the panelists lamenting over the recent trend.
Ashanti Regional Secretary of the ruling NPP, Sam Payne expressed worry over the situation and wondered why several students have taken delight in committing suicide.
According to him, there are numerous factors, some of which are drug-related issues and the fact that it has now become difficult for students to walk up for Counselling when they face a challenge in life.
Though there are Counselling departments in the various tertiary institutions, Sam Payne explained that the students do not find it attractive or trustworthy to share their problems; hence concealing them till it aggravates leading to suicide.
He called for a restructuring of the Counselling departments and also called on authorities of the institutions to heighten education on the need for students to seek counselling on an mind-bothering issue.
NDC Member of Parliament for Bongo, Edward Bawa shared similar concerns but urged the school counselors and tutors to build mutual relation with their students.
To him, the tutors should not only be concerned about lecturing the students but also develop interest in the lives of the students outside the academic circles.
He shared an experience on the programme where during his heydays at the University, he had a particular lecturer who would call and meet with his students sometimes to discuss their problems.
Mr. Bawa asked school authorities to find alternatives to build intimate relationship with their students and believed this is a step to kill any desires for suicide.
Professor Kofi Agyekum, Head of the Department of Linguistics at the University of Ghana also urged students to consult with the Counselling departments.
He was alarmed by the apathetic attitude of students in seeking counselling.
Professor Agyekum noted that it is not common to find students going to the Counselling department for therapy.
He further stated that the causes of suicide differ and sometimes premised on people's upbringing and disposition.
However, to him, students should be able to open up and share their concerns so as to receive help.
<<Print>>