Nust nurse set to graduate with PhD after developing student mental health model

Long known to students as the calm and reassuring “sister” at the campus clinic of the Namibia University of Science and Technology (Nust), Kristine Siseho is on the verge of a new milestone as she prepares to graduate with a PhD in health sciences.

Her research led to the development of an early detection model for anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation, aimed at identifying students in need of support before their condition worsens.

“What if I could develop a tool that students could use proactively to help identify those who may be silently struggling?” she asks.

She says the purpose behind the study sustained her throughout the process.

“What kept me going throughout this study was its purpose. This research was bigger than me… it was about giving hope, support, and a possible solution to students in need,” she says.

Despite her new title, Siseho says her identity as a caregiver remains unchanged.

“I feel deeply honoured to soon be called Dr Siseho, but I remain sister Siseho in my heart, because caring for people is at the centre of who I am,” she says.

With nearly two decades of clinical experience, Siseho has spent over 10 years at Nust supporting students through vulnerable moments.

Her work exposed her to what she describes as a growing mental health crisis among students.

“I have encountered many students who were deeply broken and struggling. Others were experiencing suicidal thoughts, trauma, academic failure, and overwhelming emotional pain that made them feel as though life was no longer worth living,” she says.

She notes that a lack of awareness about available services worsens the situation.

“Some did not even know that Nust offers mental health services,” she says.

Siseho says she hopes her model will move beyond research into practical use.

“My greatest hope is that the model will move beyond research and become a practical tool that makes a meaningful difference in students’ lives,” she says.

Her journey also reflects Nust’s emphasis on continuous learning and support for staff development, enabling professionals to advance academically while contributing to institutional growth.

*Additional reporting: Nust

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