In Minna East Senatorial District, Niger State, Assessing Counselors' Ability and Competencies in E-Counselling Services in Secondary Schools

Abstract

In the Minna East Senatorial District of Niger State, this study looked into e-counseling and counsellors' talents and competencies for counseling services in secondary schools. The study was directed by three research questions and one null hypothesis. The study was conducted using a descriptive survey research approach. 312 counselors were included in the study. A basic random sampling procedure was used to select the sample. The respondents' data was collected using the E-counseling and Counsellors' Abilities and Competencies in Guidance and Counselling Services Questionnaire (ECACGCSQ). To answer the study questions, the data were examined using frequency counts and percentages, while t-test statistics were utilized to test the null hypothesis at the 0.05 level of significance. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the data demonstrated that certified school counselors have very weak e-counselling abilities and competencies in the utilization of ICT facilities for students' counseling services. In light of the hazards and threats posed by COVID-19, the study advised that the government teach counsellors on how to use E-counselling services, in accordance to health experts' COVID-19 safety guidelines for the health and safety of all pupils.