McPherson University Trains Staff as Para-Counsellors to Enhance Student Support

In a proactive move to bolster its student mentorship and wellness framework, McPherson University has conducted a specialized training session for its staff, equipping them with essential skills in para-counselling, emotional intelligence, and stress management.

The initiative recognizes that university staff often serve as "parental surrogates," interacting with students daily in both academic and administrative capacities.

The Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kenneth Nwoko, underscored the timeliness of the programme given the increasing responsibilities faced by staff in the modern academic environment. To ensure these skills remain sharp, Prof. Nwoko recommended that the training become a quarterly fixture on the university calendar, emphasizing the need for continuous capacity development.

The training featured two distinguished guest speakers who provided deep dives into the psychological aspects of university service:

Prof. Rotimi Animasahun (University of Ibadan): Focused on the intersection of Para-Counselling and Emotional Intelligence. He highlighted that staff equipped with these skills are better positioned to guide students emotionally, thereby strengthening mentorship and promoting overall academic excellence.

Dr. Ajayi George (Deputy Registrar, HR, McPherson University): Delivered a lecture on Stress Management and Service Delivery. He urged staff to be intentional about building resilience and adopting practical coping strategies, noting that "maintaining a good quality of life should not be left to chance."

By transitioning staff members into effective para-counsellors, McPherson University aims to create a more empathetic and supportive environment. This strategic investment in human capital is expected to lead to faster identification of student challenges and more effective interventions, ultimately enhancing the university's service delivery.