UNILAG Counselling Unit Pledges to Reposition its Department to be Student-Friendly

By Ameerah Junaid, Emmanuel Oladipo, Oluwatosin Akinwale, Ibukunoluwa Osigunwa, Ayomide Coker, Islamiyat Akano

In an exclusive interview with UNILAG Sun, the Head of the Counselling Unit, Mrs. Janet Oluwatoyin Aregbesola has said that efforts are being put in place to bring students closer to the unit by being youth-friendly and more welcoming.

Mrs. Aregbesola said, “We are changing the narrative too. Often, counselling is seen as a last resort—a place you go when problems overwhelm you. But it is much more than that. It’s a discovery arena where students can come to learn about themselves, identify their strengths, and gain clarity on their goals and aspirations.” 

She explained that the Counselling Unit is repositioning itself as a proactive resource for students, emphasising growth rather than solely focusing on challenges.

 “Our role is not just to fix issues but to help students uncover the opportunities hidden within those issues. We want students to realise that the Counselling Unit is a tool for empowerment, not a label for weakness,” she added.

She also stressed the importance of creating a welcoming environment, noting that plans are underway to redesign the unit’s physical and operational structure to make it more inviting and accessible for all students. 

She said, “From the moment a student walks into the unit, they should feel safe, comfortable, and supported. We want them to see the unit as a haven where they can grow, not as a place that amplifies their fears or challenges.”

In response to concerns about the rate of student suicide, particularly in the College of Medicine, Mr. Olayinka Omotola, a key member of the Counselling Unit, stressed the importance of open communication. 

 “Students should learn to speak out when facing challenges. Challenges are temporary; solutions are around us. Remember, tomorrow needs you,” he stated.

Mr. Omotola also highlighted the unit’s proactive measures, including increasing awareness visits to vulnerable faculties and organising mental health campaigns. 

“We plan to increase our visits to colleges from once annually to multiple times each semester. This ensures consistent support and follow-up for students who may be struggling,” he added.

Mrs. Aregbesola said that the unit has also taken steps to address common triggers of stress, such as accommodation issues, academic pressure, and family dynamics. She further emphasised the value of orientation programs for new students, which provide critical information and resources. 

She said, “Many challenges students face could have been mitigated if they attended orientation programs. These sessions equip students with the tools needed to navigate university life successfully.