Catholic University in Zimbabwe Launches Psycho-Spiritual Initiative to Address Widespread Mental Health Conditions

He said that institutions including universities, schools, colleges, hospitals, parishes, and workplaces are expected to benefit from the therapy provided through the initiative.

According to the November 24 report, the initiative, which is the first of its kind in Zimbabwe, aims to advance the Church’s healing mission by combining psychological and spiritual interventions to restore mental and spiritual health, promoting overall wellness.

In his address during the launch of the event, the former ZCBC Secretary General, Fr Fradereck Chiromba who was the guest of honor at the event shared the inspiration behind the program, recounting an experience during a meeting in Kenya in October 2019.

“It was in October 2019 when I attended a meeting in Kenya and was fascinated by other African countries implementing similar programs focused on training, caring, supporting, and healing those experiencing psychological and spiritual stress,” Fr. Chiromba said.

Fr Chiromba expressed his joy at witnessing the fruition of this vision and his hope for the program’s national expansion to foster the Church’s healing mission.

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The program will award certificates in Psycho-Spiritual Counselling, diplomas in Psycho-Spiritual Counselling and Community Health , as well as Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Psycho-Spiritual Counselling.

The program targets pastoral agents, teachers, chaplains, clergy, catechists, youth leaders, and guidance and counselling teams.

Eligible participants must have at least five O-levels, including English. The course will span nine months, with six months of instruction and three months of practical experience.

While CUZ serves as the program’s administrative hub, the PSSSP is a pastoral project of the ZCBC, aiming to reach all corners of Zimbabwe through university learning centers and diocesan pastoral centers in all eight dioceses.

Silas Mwale Isenjia is a Kenyan journalist with a great zeal and interest for Catholic Church related communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics, Media and Communication from Moi University in Kenya. Silas has vast experience in the Media production industry. He currently works as a Journalist for ACI Africa.