Mental health stigma often begins early in life, shaped by what children hear, see, and learn in their communities. Yet in many schools, mental health education remains limited—often delivered in passive ways that do not inspire lasting understanding or change.

To address this challenge, the Ifakara Health Institute, in collaboration with Predon Company Limited, has developed an innovative intervention known as SPARKI (Stigma Prevention through Awareness, Respect, and Knowledge Initiative)—a play-based board game designed to help primary school children aged 10 -14 understand mental health and challenge stigma early in life.

Learning through play

SPARKI uses an interactive board game approach to make mental health education engaging and relatable for children. Through Swahili-language cards, guided activities, and storytelling, children are introduced to key mental health concepts in a safe and age-appropriate way. 

Rather than relying on traditional classroom lectures, learners participate in small group sessions that encourage discussion, reflection, and teamwork. The sessions are facilitated by trained teachers and are simple to deliver, making them easy to integrate into everyday school routines.

Beyond being an educational tool, SPARKI is also a research-driven intervention. It is designed to assess its effectiveness in reducing stigma and improving mental health awareness among children. The project follows a community-based participatory research approach, ensuring that it reflects local realities.

Early implementation in Ifakara

SPARKI is currently being implemented in selected primary schools in Ifakara district, Morogoro region, with plans to expand after evaluation.

So far, six schools—Kiyongwile, Mlabani, Mapinduzi, Kikwawila, Machipi, and Ihanga—have participated in the programme.

Early observations from implementation show promising results, including:

• Improved understanding of mental health conditions among children
• Reduced stigmatizing attitudes toward people with mental health challenges
• Increased openness to talk about mental health with peers and family members

Partnership and support

This initiative is led by the Ifakara Health Institute in partnership with Predon Company Limited, with support from Grand Challenges Canada and Being Initiative, alongside other collaborators committed to advancing mental health awareness and reducing stigma.

Shaping a stigma-free generation

SPARKI is helping to shape a generation that better understands mental health and challenges harmful beliefs. By combining learning with play, the initiative is encouraging a more informed, open, and supportive environment—both in schools and in the wider community.

Learn more about SPARKI Project, here