KCPA Pushes for Guidance and Counseling to be Included in School Curriculum The Kenya Counselor’s and Psychologists Association (KCPA) has called on the government to incorporate guidance and counseling into the school curriculum at all levels. Speaking at a press conference in Nairobi on Monday, KCPA National Chairperson, Dr. Julia Wango, highlighted the importance of equipping learners with the necessary skills to navigate the challenges of growing up. “Guidance and counseling is crucial for students’ personal, social, emotional, and academic development,” said Dr. Wango. “It provides a safe space for them to explore their strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations.” The association pointed out that many students face various obstacles, such as peer pressure, substance abuse, and mental health issues, that can hinder their learning and overall well-being. Without proper guidance and support, these issues can escalate and have detrimental consequences. KCPA proposed that guidance and counseling classes be introduced from the primary level, with age-appropriate topics covered. These would include lessons on self-awareness, decision-making, conflict resolution, and relationship building. Dr. Wango emphasized that trained counselors should be deployed in schools to provide individual and group counseling sessions. She also called for the establishment of a clear framework for referral pathways to ensure that students receive the necessary support when needed. “Incorporating guidance and counseling into the school curriculum is an investment in the future of our youth,” said Dr. Wango. “It will not only improve their academic performance but also prepare them to become responsible and resilient adults.” KCPA urged the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and the Ministry of Education to prioritize the integration of guidance and counseling into the education system. The association pledged its support in developing and implementing effective programs to address the needs of students. The move by KCPA aligns with global best practices in education. Numerous studies have shown that students who receive guidance and counseling are more likely to succeed academically, have better mental health outcomes, and make positive life choices.Kenya Counseling and Psychologists Association Advocates for Guidance and Counseling in SchoolsKenya Counseling and Psychologists Association Advocates for Guidance and Counseling in Schools The Kenya Counseling and Psychologists Association (KCPA) has underscored the importance of incorporating guidance and counseling as a compulsory subject in secondary schools. KCPA president, Professor Catherine Gachutha, highlighted ongoing discussions with the Ministry of Education to introduce the subject into the curriculum. Professor Gachutha emphasized the need to equip students with basic psychosocial support skills, enabling them to navigate their emotions effectively. She attributed incidents of indiscipline in schools to poor mental health among students. “By offering counseling as a subject, we can revive our learning institutions and foster improved performance, as students will gain confidence in expressing themselves and seeking support,” she stated. The KCPA president further emphasized the necessity of equipping teaching and non-teaching staff with counseling skills. She noted that guidance and counseling departments often remain inactive due to insufficient staffing, appealing to the government to assign more counselors to schools. Professor Gachutha made these remarks during the launch of a counseling program at Chinga Boys Secondary School in Nyeri County. The program included counseling and tutoring sessions for 1,500 students, provided by the Second Chance Counseling Center. Rose Gathii, the Center’s general director, stressed the significance of providing guidance to students during their formative years. She advocated for creating accessible platforms for youth to express their emotions and instilling life skills, such as stress and anger management, to empower them in overcoming challenges. “Through counseling, we aim to enhance students’ well-being, mitigate distress, and address crises that may hinder their progress,” Ms. Gathii said. These initiatives demonstrate the growing recognition of mental health and the need to provide support to young people. By incorporating guidance and counseling into school curricula, Kenya is taking a proactive approach to addressing the emotional well-being of its students and creating a more conducive learning environment.KCPA Pushes for Guidance and Counseling to be Included in School Curriculum The Kenya Counselor-Psychologist Association (KCPA) is advocating for the inclusion of guidance and counseling services in the school curriculum. According to KCPA, this move would significantly enhance students’ mental well-being, foster their psychosocial development, and promote their overall academic performance. The association argues that the current curriculum lacks adequate provisions for addressing students’ mental health and social challenges, which can adversely affect their learning and personal growth. They emphasized that guidance counselors play a crucial role in providing students with support, guidance, and interventions to overcome these challenges. KCPA President Joseph Muiruri highlighted the need for a comprehensive school-based guidance and counseling program that incorporates individual and group counseling, career guidance, and psychoeducational workshops. He noted that such programs have been proven to reduce absenteeism, improve students’ self-esteem and coping skills, and promote a positive school climate. “Guidance and counseling services are not a luxury but a necessity for our students,” Muiruri said. “They provide a safe and supportive environment for students to explore their emotions, develop problem-solving skills, and make informed decisions about their future.” The KCPA’s push for the inclusion of guidance and counseling in the school curriculum has gained support from various stakeholders, including education officials, parents, and student representatives. They believe that investing in students’ mental well-being is not only beneficial for their personal growth but also has far-reaching societal implications. The association urged the Ministry of Education to prioritize the integration of guidance and counseling services into the curriculum and allocate adequate resources to ensure its effectiveness. They expressed hope that their advocacy would lead to positive changes that would shape the future of education and the well-being of Kenyan students.