Lagos TESCOM Stresses Importance of Counselling in Education Sector

The Lagos State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) has highlighted the critical role of counselling in promoting the welfare of both students and teachers within the state’s education system. This was emphasized during a meeting with Heads of Counselling Units from the six Education Districts and the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB), held at the TESCOM office in Ikeja.

Speaking at the event, the Director of Teacher’s Welfare Department, Mr. Akinwande Festus, who represented the Permanent Secretary of TESCOM, Mrs. Bopo Oyekan Ismaila, said the gathering was designed to foster stronger collaboration between TESCOM and the counselling units. He explained that the meeting would help address issues such as sudden deaths, as well as the emotional and psychological health challenges facing staff in the education sector.

Akinwande reminded the counsellors that their responsibilities extend beyond supporting students to also include teachers and non-teaching staff, many of whom face stress, emotional strain, or silent struggles due to stigmatization. He urged them to adopt modern counselling approaches that incorporate therapy, daily care, and proactive intervention to promote healthy lifestyles and improve productivity. He further advised counsellors to uphold strict confidentiality in handling sensitive cases and avoid unnecessary exposure of private matters to colleagues.

The meeting, which was the first of its kind, provided a platform to discuss the activities and challenges of the counselling units and identify areas that require TESCOM’s attention. Counsellors present at the session pledged their continued collaboration with the commission to ensure the overall well-being of both teachers and students in Lagos State.