NOUN professor says Nigerian schools are neglecting academic counselling

A professor at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has expressed concern about what he describes as a neglect of academic counselling in the country’s education system.

The academic, Augustine Ukwueze, warns that it is undermining student performance and career development.

A lecturer in the Department of Educational Foundations, Ukwueze said academic counselling remains an overlooked but powerful tool that can drive significant improvements in educational outcomes.

Speaking at NOUN’s 31st inaugural lecture in Abuja, Ukwueze described academic counselling as a “dark horse” in Nigeria’s education sector.

He argued that despite its importance, many institutions fail to prioritise it.

Ukwueze linked this perceived neglect to poor academic performance, misguided career choices, and high dropout rates.

“Academic counselling is more than just guiding students on what courses to take. It is a crucial support system that helps them navigate their academic journey, enhances performance, and prepares them for the workforce,” he said.

Presenting empirical data, Ukwueze highlighted the impact of counselling on student success, noting that schools with structured counselling programmes recorded higher retention and progression rates.

He also pointed to improvements in exam results among students who received consistent academic guidance.

Ukwueze identified several challenges affecting counselling services, including inadequate funding, a shortage of trained counsellors, and widespread misconceptions that prevent students from seeking support.

The NOUN professor urged policymakers to invest in professional counselling services across all levels of education.