Benue State University Hosts Maiden Induction Ceremony for Certified Counsellors
The Department of Educational Foundations, Benue State University, Makurdi, in partnership with the Counseling Association of Nigeria (CASSON), successfully conducted its inaugural induction and oath-taking ceremony, inducting 130 graduates into the professional body.
Mary Nwaeze 
On November 26, 2024, Benue State University (BSU), Makurdi, made history as it hosted its first-ever induction and oath-taking ceremony for graduates of Guidance and Counseling. Organized by the Department of Educational Foundations in collaboration with the Counseling Association of Nigeria (CASSON), the event was held at the Social Sciences Lecture Theater and saw 130 graduates from the 2020/2021 and 2022/2023 academic sessions officially inducted into the association.
The ceremony began with an opening remark by Professor Beatrice Onyi Ker, one of the founding lecturers of the program, who commended the resilience of the students and the dedication of the lecturers. She lauded the department for producing exceptional graduates now ready to contribute to the field of counseling.
Representing the National President of CASSON, Professor Malami Umar Tambawal, was Professor Mrs. Grace Enechojo Egbe-Okpenge, the Benue State Chairperson of CASSON. She delivered a goodwill message on behalf of the national body and extended apologies for the President's absence.
The Head of the Department of Educational Foundations, Professor Gabriel Terzungwe Akume, paid tribute to the program’s pioneers, including Professors Beatrice Ker, Moses Orhungur, Gbenda Laha, Nancy Agbe, and Peter Ortese. He praised their contributions to building a solid foundation for Guidance and Counseling at BSU.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Joe Tor Iorapuu, was represented at the event by Professor Benjamin Iortswam Imoko, the Capacity Dean of the Faculty of Education. He congratulated the inductees and applauded their perseverance and dedication.
A highlight of the event was the keynote address titled “The Qualitative Counselor” delivered by Professor Daniel Iyorgande Denga. Other notable moments included prayers led by Professor Happiness Igbo and Dr. Ezekiel Hanior, who also offered special blessings to the graduates.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone as the graduates officially became members of the Counseling Association of Nigeria (CASSON). It was a joyous occasion celebrating their hard work and commitment to the field of counseling, setting them on the path to providing professional guidance and support in society.
