COSTAATT partners with Arthur Ashe Institute on mental health education

A new initiative aimed at improving youth mental health in Trinidad and Tobago was launched today with the signing of a landmark memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the College of Science, Technology and Applied Arts of Trinidad and Tobago (COSTAATT) and the Arthur Ashe Institute for Urban Health (AAIUH), a New York-based nonprofit founded by the late tennis legend and humanitarian Arthur Ashe.

The agreement, signed at COSTAATT’s City Campus in Port-of-Spain, formalised a partnership to expand mental health education, peer mentorship, and community-based research opportunities for young people across the country.

This year’s collaboration culminated in a three-week programme in July, which ended with a student graduation and research presentation immediately prior to the MOU signing ceremony.

Students shared original research on pressing mental health topics, including the effects of social media on mental well-being, teen social isolation, and the growing need for digital wellness.

Their presentations were the product of training and mentorship delivered in collaboration with key organisations such as Healthy Minds, Restore A Sense Of I Can, UNESCO, the Trinidad and Tobago Association of Psychologists (TTAP), the Heroes Foundation, the Oilfield Workers Trade Union (OWTU), and the American Chamber of Commerce of Trinidad and Tobago (AMCHAM).
President of COSTAATT, Dr Keith Nurse described the partnership as a significant milestone for the institution and the country’s youth.

“I was a teenager when Arthur Ashe was one of my heroes. His grace, discipline, and vision live on in this programme,” he said. “This is a proud moment for our College, supporting young people through a model that integrates health, education, and advocacy.”

Dr Nurse also noted the high calibre of student output, stating that COSTAATT is considering offering college credit to participants to help launch their academic journeys.

CEO of AAIUH, Dr Marilyn Fraser echoed the enthusiasm, calling the collaboration “a perfect reflection of Arthur Ashe’s values.”

“Arthur Ashe believed in equity, access, and excellence, and this partnership embodies all three. By working with COSTAATT, we’re ensuring that students across Trinidad and Tobago gain access to transformative learning experiences in mental health and community advocacy,” she said.

The five-year MOU sets the stage for year-round programming, regional outreach, and joint research efforts, reinforcing a shared commitment to youth mental health and holistic development throughout Trinidad and Tobago.