COUNSELLING NEEDS OF OUT-OF-SCHOOL CHILDREN IN THE NORTHEAST NIGERIA

Abstract

The counselling needs of out-of-schoolchildren (OOSC) in Northeast Nigeria are diverse and complex, reflecting the region's unique challenges some of which include psychological and psychosocial support, career development, vocational training and guidance, educational counselling and health and well-being. The educational system in this region is aback as compared to other regions especially in the south due to high rate of poverty, culture, insurgency and terrorism and child labour which has marginally forced millions of students out of school. This paper aimed at investigating the counselling needs of the OOSC with the purpose of instigating counsellors and other educational stakeholders into actions to assist the OOSC in living a better life. By addressing these needs through a comprehensive and context-specific approach, the counselling services can significantly improve the lives of out-of-school children in Northeast Nigeria, providing them with the support they need to thrive despite the challenges they face.