Inspiring Sculpture Unveiled at UCC Highlights Academic Struggles and Mental Health Awareness

Ferdinand | EducationGhana |  November 24| Inspiring Sculpture Unveiled at UCC Highlights Academic Struggles and Mental Health Awareness

A powerful sculpture by Ms. Christabel Ama Asmah at UCC’s Science Shuttle Station highlights the burdens students face on their academic journeys, emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness.

Inspiring Sculpture Unveiled at UCC Highlights Academic Struggles and Mental Health Awareness

The University of Cape Coast (UCC) has unveiled a thought-provoking sculpture at the Science Shuttle Station on its North Campus, shedding light on the challenges faced by students during their academic journeys.

A Monument of Resilience and Reflection

The sculpture, crafted by Ms. Christabel Ama Asmah, a National Service person with the Department of Vocational and Technical Education (VoTEC), vividly depicts a person weighed down by a heavy load while embarking on an academic journey.

Created using resin, sack, rope, paint, metal, and cement, the artwork is a striking metaphor for the mental, emotional, and financial burdens that students often bear.

The Artist’s Message

During the unveiling ceremony, Ms. Asmah explained the concept behind the piece, highlighting common pressures faced by students:

• Peer pressure
• Side hustles
• Financial constraints
• Broken homes

“These loads may lead to depression and other behavioral or mental disorders,” she noted. She expressed hope that the sculpture would spark meaningful conversations about mental health within the academic community, encouraging a culture of understanding and empathy.

A Call for Mental Health Awareness

The Registrar of UCC, Mr. Gideon Enoch Abbeyquaye, who inaugurated the monument, emphasized its significance in reminding students about the importance of mental health.

“This sculpture is not just an artwork; it’s a call to balance academics with mental well-being,” he said. Mr. Abbeyquaye commended Ms. Asmah for her creativity and urged students to seize opportunities to excel academically while maintaining a healthy state of mind.

Community Impact

The unveiling ceremony drew attendance from university officials, lecturers, and students, who applauded the initiative. The sculpture is expected to inspire greater awareness and foster conversations about supporting students through their academic journeys.

Conclusion

This monumental artwork by Ms. Christabel Ama Asmah stands as a powerful reminder of the resilience required in academia and the need for mental health advocacy. UCC continues to lead in promoting a balanced, supportive environment for its students.