Impact of Counselling Interventions in Strengthening School Security for Educational Sustainable Development in Aba, Education Zone, Abia State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study investigated the impact of counselling interventions in strengthening school security for sustainable educational development in Aba Education Zone, Abia State, Nigeria. The population comprised 4,177 teachers across 119 secondary schools in the zone. Using a simple random sampling technique without replacement, a sample of 137 teachers was drawn from secondary schools located in the five Local Government Areas of the zone, namely Aba South, Aba North, Obingwa, Isiala Ngwa North, and Isiala Ngwa South. Data were collected using a researcher developed attitude questionnaire titled Impact of Counselling Interventions in Strengthening School Security for Sustainable Development Questionnaire (ICISSSSDQ). The study was guided by two research purposes and two corresponding research questions. To establish the reliability of the instrument, a pilot study was conducted outside the study area, and data obtained were analysed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation, yielding a reliability coefficient of 0.81, which indicates satisfactory internal consistency. Data generated from the main study were analysed using mean and standard deviation statistics to answer the research questions. The findings revealed that secondary schools in Aba Education Zone are confronted with various security challenges, including bullying, cult activities, gang disruption, and threats from the surrounding environment. The results further indicated that counselling interventions play a significant role in strengthening school security, particularly by promoting emotional stability, positive peer relationships, and supportive learning environments. The study therefore concludes that counselling interventions are essential for strengthening school security and promoting sustainable educational development in secondary schools in Aba Education Zone. Based on the findings, it is recommended that counselling services be strengthened and made an integral part of school safety and student welfare programmes in secondary schools across Abia State to foster peaceful relationships and enhance students’ academic, social, and emotional development.