«Schools and educational institutions have a critical role in promoting mental health and wellbeing among students»
World Mental Health Report, WHO.
In alignment with the recommendations from the World Health Organization’s World Mental Health Report (2022) and inspired by the concept of “Health-Promoting Schools,” UWC Adriatic has partnered with AstraZeneca Italia to launch an innovative initiative, Building a Healthy Ecosystem: Participative Leadership and Peer Health Awareness at UWC Adriatic. This project aims to promote preventative health measures and foster a supportive environment focused on mental and physical well-being within our vibrant, diverse community, which includes 186 students from 82 countries.
Over the next two years, the initiative will address the rising concern of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like cardiovascular and metabolic disorders among youth, focusing on healthy lifestyle choices as a proactive approach to wellness. The project’s goal is to develop an integrated “health ecosystem” on campus where awareness, peer-led education, and practical tools for self-care become second nature. Students and staff will engage in workshops that teach key health principles—ranging from sustainable nutrition and exercise to stress management and mental well-being—while gaining the skills to apply these principles daily.
UWC Adriatic’s long-standing partnerships with local schools, community organisations, and social service providers make this initiative particularly impactful. By involving the broader community in our activities and events, we hope to extend the project’s benefits beyond our campus and share resources, expertise, and best practices with local schools and organisations in the surrounding region. Activities will include community engagement days, health awareness campaigns and a final conference.
With AstraZeneca Italia’s support, UWC Adriatic is committed to creating a lasting health-conscious culture, empowering students, staff, and the broader community to take proactive steps toward building a healthier future. This partnership marks an exciting step forward in integrating health and wellness deeply into the fabric of our educational experience.
«Educational settings can benefit greatly from peer-led mental health initiatives, which not only empower students but also help build resilience, empathy, and emotional intelligence across the community»
World Mental Health Report, WHO.
