The Aga Khan University’s Brain and Mind Institute (BMI) and the Shamiri Institute have entered into a partnership aimed at addressing mental health challenges faced by young people in Kenya. The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) marked the beginning of a collaboration focused on research, capacity building, and creating community-driven solutions to improve mental well-being.
The partnership combines BMI’s expertise in mental health research with Shamiri Institute’s grassroots initiatives, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based approaches in shaping interventions. Prof. Zul Merali, Founding Director of BMI, described the collaboration as a chance to blend science with community impact. “By combining our expertise with Shamiri Institute’s innovative approaches, we aim to create transformative solutions that address the unique mental health challenges faced by adolescents,” he said. “Together, we can drive meaningful change, equipping communities with the tools and knowledge to support mental well-being.”
A key aspect of the collaboration will be the analysis of data to explore the economic impact of mental health interventions. These insights will guide policy development and practical implementation, creating a foundation for sustainable change. Tom Osborn, Founder and CEO of Shamiri Institute, emphasized the importance of such a partnership, saying, “I’m thrilled about this partnership. Today, we have identified areas of synergy, and our collective mission is to make mental health accessible for all. I look forward to what we will achieve in research, policy implementation, and activating resources to advance mental health.”
The partnership will prioritize key areas such as conducting joint research projects on youth mental health and implementing awareness campaigns to enhance mental health literacy and reduce stigma, among other initiatives.
Additionally, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between research and practical applications by developing peer-led support systems for youth in universities. With Shamiri Institute already engaging with hundreds of schools annually, the collaboration is well-placed to reach young people where they are most accessible—in schools and communities.
To ensure continued progress, the two organizations plan to co-host regular webinars and publish joint research. Emerging researchers will be given opportunities to contribute to this growing body of work, helping to build a stronger ecosystem for mental health research and policy in Kenya.
This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to improving mental health care for youth by focusing on evidence-based practices and community-driven approaches. Together, BMI and Shamiri Institute aim to create a framework for mental health care that is sustainable, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of Kenya’s young population.
