Osun Govt Moves To Resuscitate Guidance And Counselling In Schools

…organises One-day Training

Osun State Government through the State Senior Secondary Education Board has taken steps to resuscitate the Guidance and Counselling unit of schools across the State.

To this end, the State government has organized a one-day training workshop for Guidance and Counselling officers across Secondary schools in the State.

The training is an effort to equip the counselors with necessary skills, knowledge and strategies to help and support students make better choices in their academic pursuit and other endeavours.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for education, Hon. Dipo Eluwole said the world is changing and so are the challenges facing learners in schools stating that the program is essential to expose counsellors to emerging techniques of creating a safe and supportive school environment.

Hon. Eluwole added that the program will provide counsellors with updated knowledge of career trends, education reforms and the impact of technology on student development as students need proper guidance in choosing careers that align with their skills, interests and future job opportunities in a competitive world.

While reflecting on the theme of the training: “Developing a School Crisis Response Plan, Roles and Responsibilities of School Counselors in a Crisis”, the commissioner noted that it is timely and crucial as Nigeria and like many other countries facing challenges such as drug abuse, cultism, teenage pregnancy and cyber bullying amongst students.

He further urged the participants to participate actively and engage, share experiences and embrace new knowledge that will enable them to make difference in their schools.

In his welcome address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Secondary Education, Hon. Sunday Komolafe said the training has been designed to help counselors understand their roles in a school crisis response team, develop clear strategies for action and build confidence to leaf and support others during critical moments.

Hon. Komolafe further urged the participants to work together to create a stronger support system for the schools and families.

In their separate address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Mr. Murtala Jimoh and the Executive Secretary, State Senior Education Board, Mrs. Hannah Kolawole said schools are integral part of communities and the training is a reminder of the critical roles that school counselors play in safeguarding the emotional and psychological well being of the students particularly in times of crisis.