We are pleased to feature Ms. Akua Afriyie Addae, the new Clinical Psychologist and Counsellor at the College. Ms Addae holds a Bachelor's degree and a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Ghana, where she is currently pursuing her PhD in Psychology. Her career path includes teaching experience at Fosu Training College, providing her with valuable insights into educational environments before specialising in mental health support.
Ms. Addae provides comprehensive mental health and counselling services to both students and staff at CoE. Her work focuses on creating safe, non-judgmental spaces where individuals can address challenges ranging from academic pressure and adjustment difficulties to complex mental health concerns. Central to her approach is building trust and empowering individuals to develop resilience, confidence, and effective coping strategies. She also participates in institutional decision-making processes, ensuring that student and staff welfare considerations inform college policies and operations.
Her role is critical to the College's mission of becoming an internationally recognized centre of excellence in engineering. As Ms. Addae notes, "This can only be achieved when staff and students are supported within a healthy and enabling environment." Engineering students face unique pressures including rigorous coursework, competitive environments, and high expectations. Without adequate mental health support, these pressures can compromise academic performance, derail promising careers, and leave lasting impacts on wellbeing. Her accessible, confidential services provide essential intervention during critical moments, helping students develop the emotional intelligence and stress management skills necessary for long-term success.
The relevance of Ms. Addae's work extends across the entire CoE community. For students, she provides the support infrastructure that enables them to navigate university life successfully and reach their full potential. For staff, she offers resources that enhance professional performance and job satisfaction. For the institution, she contributes to a culture of care that attracts and retains talent while reducing attrition and improving overall outcomes. Her holistic approach recognizes that technical excellence cannot be separated from human wellbeing that the College's academic achievements depend fundamentally on the mental health and resilience of its community members.
Ms. Addae's vision aligns directly with CoE's strategic objectives. By providing high-quality mental health services, she enables both students and staff to thrive, achieve their potential, and perform at their best. Her work represents an essential investment in sustainable excellence, cultivating not just skilled engineers, but healthy, resilient professionals equipped to lead meaningful careers and contribute positively to society. Students and staff seeking support can access her confidential counselling services through the CoE administration office.
