Demand for Counselling Heightens in Schools after COVID-19 Pandemic and Associated Socio-economic Setbacks

Abstract

The departure from traditional family structure and the evolving social trends with a breakdown in the customary support system has created a gap for fulfilling the physical, psychological and social needs of the children. The emphasis is on the need for an alternative support system to mediate the needs of them and counselling in schools is definitely the bridge that fills this gap. There is no doubt that COVID-19 pandemic and associated socio-economic factors have heightened the need for counselors in schools. This study investigates the views of school administrators, principals, head teachers and classroom teachers regarding counselling in schools. A survey research design was implemented and a survey was executed to 100 participants in the western division. 78 of them responded by returning the completed survey giving a response rate of 78%, which is acceptable for discussion. Findings reveal that Fiji has seen an increase in counselling needs after COVID-19 and subsequent lockdowns. Findings also reveal that school leaders and teachers are looking forward to a counselling program that prepares counsellors who can assist students suffering from short-term and long-term psychological effects of the pandemic and prepare students for the ‘new norm’. Majority of the participants indicated that counseling skills are indispensable manifestations considering the current unprecedented epidemiological environment.