Eksu professor urges focus on school counselling and mental health

Professor Francis Ibimiluyi has called on governments to make school counselling and adolescent mental health a national education priority. He delivered this message at the university's 109th inaugural lecture at the University Auditorium. He warned that ignoring the psychological and social challenges facing young people could hurt the country's future human capital.

Students face issues like identity crises, peer pressure, academic stress, family expectations, substance abuse, and cyberbullying. The professor advised governments to deploy qualified guidance counsellors in schools, increase funding for counselling programmes, and enforce stronger policies against substance abuse and cyberbullying. He also urged schools to set up well-equipped counselling units and train teachers in basic counselling skills.

He asked parents to create supportive home environments and avoid putting too much pressure on children regarding academic performance. Investing in adolescents through early intervention and proactive educational policies will produce emotionally stable and responsible citizens.