ABOUT THE MILLENNIUM FELLOWSHIP - CLASS OF 2024
United Nations Academic Impact and MCN are proud to partner on the Millennium Fellowship. This year, 52,000+ young leaders applied to join the Class of 2024 on 6,000+ campuses across 170 nations. 280+ campuses worldwide (just 5%) were selected to host the 4,000+ Millennium Fellows.
UNITED NATIONS ACADEMIC IMPACT AND MCN PROUDLY PRESENT MARVELLOUS UCHECHUKWU IGBOANUSI, A MILLENNIUM FELLOW FOR THE CLASS OF 2024.
Nnamdi Azikiwe University Nnewi | Nnewi, Nigeria | Advancing SDG 3 & UNAI 9
" Creativity,problem solving,mentorship drive my ambition.
Being a part of the Millennium Fellowship will enhance will enhance these skills collaboratively. The skills I gain from the Millennium Fellowship will make my social impact on schools and communities more tangible and aligned with UNAI principles and SDGs. I'm excited to increase my anticipatory competence by envisioning new ways of learning and creativity "
Millennium Fellowship Project: The Calma Project
The Calma Project, a Mental Health Initiative aimed at addressing the mental health challenges faced by students in the College of Health Science and Medicine, was successfully executed at Nnamdi Azikiwe University. The project targeted common issues such as academic stress, financial instability, family pressures, and personal crises that often affect students' mental well-being. The project was a collaborative effort that brought together key partners and stakeholders to ensure its success. Project Highlights 1. Safe Space Creation: An anonymous online platform hosted by "Oakland Xpress" - (a campus wide WhatsApp platform) allowed students to freely share their struggles and connect with peers for support. This platform was critical in breaking the stigma around mental health discussions and encouraging openness. 2. Mental Health Talk:
The Head of the Department of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, anchored a highly impactful session on “Identifying Mental Health Challenges and How to Offer Help.” The talk highlighted the importance of early recognition of mental health issues and practical steps for self-care and supporting others. 3. Awareness and Publicity:
- The "Rotaract Club of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching" played a significant role in creating awareness about the project through various publicity channels, engaging students, and amplifying the campaign message. - The "Director of Health" from the Student Association Government also supported the initiative by providing logistical support and ensuring broad student engagement. 4. Peer Support and Coverage:
Survivor stories were shared during the sessions, fostering a sense of hope and solidarity among participants. The contributions of the "Rotaract Club" and the "Director of Health" ensured widespread coverage and student participation. 5. Workshops and Discussions
Interactive sessions were conducted to equip students with skills to manage mental health challenges and provide tools to help peers. The involvement of mental health professionals made these workshops highly impactful and insightful. Outcome:
The Calma Project created a lasting impact by: - Raising awareness about mental health challenges among students. - Providing students with tools to cope with stress and seek help when needed. - Building a supportive community that prioritizes mental well-being. Acknowledgments:
The success of "The Calma Project" would not have been possible without the partnerships and support of the following: - "Rotaract Club of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital" for their dedication to publicity and student mobilization. - "Director of Health, Student Association Government" for logistical and strategic support. - "Oakland Xpress" for hosting the anonymous platform that served as a safe space for students. - "Head Of Department, Mental Health Department, Faculty of Medicine" for their insightful and educational session. "The Calma Project" has laid the foundation for continued mental health advocacy and support within the university, inspiring students to prioritize their mental well-being and support one another.
About the Millennium Fellow
Marvellous Uchechukwu Igboanusi is a bright and globally competitive medical student at the College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University. Born in Imo State and currently studying in Nnewi, Nigeria, Uchechukwu has always been passionate about advocating for mental health, adolescent health, sexual and reproductive health, and public health. His dedication to these causes stems from his commitment to addressing the high morbidity and mortality rates from preventable health issues affecting young people and communities, often due to a lack of access to information.
During his time in school, Marvellous has organized and participated in numerous community outreach programs focusing on public health concerns such as cholera prevention, the preparation of Oral Rehydration Solutions, malaria prevention, and various sexual and reproductive health and mental health topics in secondary schools across Nnewi. He aspires to pursue a professional career where he can further advance these advocacies and contribute to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
