Unicaf University Promotes Dementia Awareness Through World Alzheimer’s Month Session
Unicaf University, Zambia, in collaboration with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias in Zambia (ADDIZ), hosted a Dementia Awareness Session on 17 September 2026 as part of activities commemorating World Alzheimer’s Month.
Held at the Unicaf University Campus under the theme “The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters,” the session brought together staff and students, caregivers, healthcare professionals, dementia care practitioners and members of the wider community.
The event provided a platform for participants to deepen their understanding of dementia and its impact on individuals, families and communities, while encouraging knowledge-sharing, collaboration and practical approaches to dementia care.
The programme featured contributions from professionals and practitioners working in dementia awareness and care, including Dr Mataa Moses of ADDIZ, Esther Mapili Jere of Kabiko’s Home Based Care, Dr Mbono Dube, and dementia care coach Leah Chimuzinga, among others. Discussions addressed a broad range of topics, including dementia awareness, communication, person-centred care, caregiver wellbeing and experiences from the field.
A key component of the session was a student case study competition, which challenged participating students to consider practical challenges relating to dementia care in Zambia and develop solution-oriented responses. The activity encouraged students to apply their academic knowledge to a real-world health issue while strengthening their understanding of dementia awareness, care and advocacy.
The interactive format of the session also included presentations, experience-sharing, a question-and-answer discussion and opportunities for networking among stakeholders involved in dementia care and advocacy.
The event further highlighted Unicaf University’s commitment to health education and community engagement through an overview of programmes offered by its School of Health and Medical Sciences, demonstrating the role of higher education in connecting academic learning with important public health issues affecting communities.
Speaking during the event, Unicaf University representatives highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for students, healthcare professionals, caregivers and community stakeholders to engage with issues such as dementia and to contribute to greater awareness and understanding.
The University subsequently extended its participation in World Alzheimer’s Month activities by joining ADDIZ for its 4th Walk to End Dementia in Zambia, held in Lusaka on 19 September under the same theme, “The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters.”
The walk brought together members of the public, healthcare professionals, caregivers, organisations and other stakeholders to raise awareness of dementia, promote understanding and support efforts to reduce stigma associated with the condition. Unicaf University was represented by Dean of Student Affairs Abigail Chisala and DVC Research and Innovation, Dr Attridge Mwelwa, alongside other participants.
Through its involvement in both activities, Unicaf University contributed to broader World Alzheimer’s Month efforts while strengthening its engagement with organisations and stakeholders working to advance dementia awareness and advocacy in Zambia.
