First Lady Mellisa Santokhi-Seenacherry launched the ‘Me Time’ program, focused on mental health, at EduCampus Aruba on Monday, October 21, 2024. The First Lady, who is currently on an official visit to Aruba and Curaçao with President Chandrikapersad Santokhi, visited EduCampus Aruba by invitation. This hybrid educational institution, blending both public and private elements, develops education in collaboration with the community and focuses on design, innovation, and sustainable development. EduCampus combines formal, non-formal, and informal education to prepare children for the 21st century.

The ‘Me Time’ project is a mental health initiative that uses mindfulness exercises to create mental calm. It aims to help young people become more aware of their breathing, body sensations, and thoughts without becoming overwhelmed by them. This can help them relax and focus during breaks, before school, or at home when studying, as well as when they are feeling unwell. The goal of ‘Me Time’ is to foster mentally strong, resilient, and healthy young citizens. The program also emphasizes positive mental inspiration and support for youth. In Suriname, the First Lady has already introduced this project in several primary schools, where it has been well received. The intention is to expand the program to more schools.

The First Lady will also introduce this project in Curaçao, targeting both young people and adults.