The Lagos State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) has emphasized the importance of counseling in the education sector.
This emphasis was made at a meeting with Heads of Counselling Units in all Education Districts and LASTVEB at TESCOM Office in Ikeja.
Welcoming counsellors to the meeting Mr. Akinwande Festus, Director Teacher’s Welfare Department of TESCOM, who represented the Permanent Secretary of TESCOM, Mrs. Bopo Oyekan Ismaila, disclosed that the purpose of the meeting was to strengthen collaboration between TESCOM, Heads of Counselling Unit of all the 6 Education Districts and LASTVEB to address the incidence of sudden deaths, as well as emotional and psychological health challenges among staff.
It was also an avenue to intimate the Directors of the several health opportunities available in the State.
While appreciating the counselors’ efforts and reaffirming the Lagos State Government’s commitment to teachers’ welfare, Akinwande reminded the counselors that their role goes beyond supporting students alone but extends to teachers and non-teaching staff especially those facing emotional and psychological challenges.
He noted that modern counseling seeks to address the peculiar needs of individuals, incorporating therapy, daily care, and proactive intervention for a healthy lifestyle, which ultimately leads to increased productivity.
He urged counselors to maintain strict confidentiality while handling cases as many teachers face psychological torture, stress, and some suffer in silence to prevent stigmatization and misinformation.
He further advised counselors not to expose sensitive matters to colleagues unnecessarily and to remain discreet in their professional duties.
He encouraged counsellors to observe their environment closely and escalate issues appropriately from the school level to the Tutor General/ Permanent Secretary before reaching TESCOM.
The inaugural meeting serves as an avenue to engage Head Counsellors in Education Districts and LASTVEB on their activities, challenges and relevant information needed for TESCOM’s attention.
Counselors at the meeting pledged their continued collaboration with TESCOM to ensure the well-being of both teachers and students across the State.
