The Guidance and Counselling Unit of the Directorate of Student Affairs at McPherson University recently hosted an impactful seminar titled “Empowering Student Leaders as Effective Peer Counsellors.” The program was specifically designed to equip chapel leaders and various student representatives with the psychological tools necessary to support their peers. By focusing on the unique position student leaders hold as the “first point of contact” for those in distress, the university aims to foster a more compassionate and resilient campus community.
Delivering the welcome address on behalf of the Ag. Dean, Student Affairs, the Sub-Dean, Mrs. Esther Awokoya, charged the student leaders to embrace their roles with a deep sense of responsibility and empathy. She encouraged them to be approachable, attentive, and proactive in supporting fellow students, noting that their influence can significantly shape the emotional and social wellbeing of the university community.
The session was facilitated by Mrs. Florence Adetunji, the Deputy Registrar, Guidance and Counselling Unit. In her lecture, she emphasized that leadership in a university setting extends far beyond administrative tasks or event planning; it fundamentally involves caring for the holistic wellbeing of the student body. Mrs. Adetunji highlighted that peer counselling serves as a vital bridge between the general student population and professional support services, reducing the stigma often associated with seeing a counsellor.
During the seminar, student leaders were introduced to the core skills of effective counselling, including active listening, empathy, and maintaining a non-judgmental attitude. Mrs. Adetunji provided practical examples of open-ended questions and trust-building responses, while cautioning against common pitfalls such as interrogation or offering advice beyond one’s competence. The training shows that the primary goal of a peer counsellor is to help individuals clarify their concerns and explore possible solutions in a safe and supportive environment.
A critical portion of the training focused on boundary setting and identifying red flags. Mrs. Adetunji emphasized that while student leaders play a vital supportive role, they are not professional therapists. She outlined key warning signs such as severe emotional distress, substance abuse, or situations requiring urgent intervention, noting that such cases must be promptly referred to the Guidance and Counselling Unit. This clarity ensures that leaders can offer meaningful support without becoming overwhelmed or overstepping professional limits.
The seminar also addressed the ethical principles guiding peer counselling, including confidentiality, honesty, and respect. Participants were introduced to a structured five-step counselling approach: establishing rapport, listening attentively, clarifying concerns, exploring options, and encouraging constructive action. This framework equips student leaders with a practical guide for handling academic, social, and emotional challenges presented by their peers.
In her concluding remarks, Mrs. Adetunji urged the leaders to commit themselves to the values of care and compassion. She reminded participants that being an effective leader means being available and responsive to the needs of others. The seminar ended on a high note, with participants expressing a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to working closely with professional counsellors to build a healthier and more supportive university community.
