University of Nairobi Strengthens Student Support Through Peer Counsellors and O3 Plus Champions Training

The University of Nairobi, through the Office of the Dean of Students, in collaboration with the UNESCO O3 Plus Project, successfully conducted a Peer Counselling and O3 Plus Champions Training on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the UoN Towers.

The full-day training brought together student leaders and peer counsellors for an intensive capacity-building session aimed at strengthening psychosocial support systems within the University.

The programme commenced with an opening ceremony led by the Dean of Students, Mr. Johnson Kinyua, who emphasized the critical role of peer counsellors in promoting student wellbeing, fostering safe spaces, and supporting fellow students through academic and personal challenges.

A key highlight of the training was an introduction to the UNESCO O3 Plus Project, presented by Ms. Julia Wangari. The session outlined the project’s objectives, which focus on enhancing youth health, wellbeing, and empowerment through comprehensive sexuality education, mental health awareness, and life skills development within higher education institutions.

Participants were taken through a series of interactive and practical sessions designed to equip them with essential peer counselling competencies. These included an introduction to peer counselling, where facilitators emphasized the importance of understanding roles, maintaining boundaries, and upholding ethical standards in supporting fellow students.

The training further explored common student issues within the University context, providing insights into challenges that often require peer intervention, including mental health concerns, academic stress, and social pressures.

A dedicated session on emotional intelligence enabled participants to understand and manage their own emotions while effectively supporting others. This was complemented by practical training on basic counselling skills such as active listening, effective questioning, empathy, reflection, and paraphrasing.

Participants also engaged in hands-on learning through role plays and scenario-based discussions focusing on managing difficult situations, including handling emotional distress, responding to silence or anger, and maintaining appropriate boundaries.

In addition, the training covered referral skills and risk awareness, equipping peer counsellors with the ability to identify red flags and connect students to professional support services where necessary.

The afternoon session provided an opportunity for participants to integrate their learning through practical role-play simulations, allowing them to apply acquired skills in real-life scenarios under guided supervision.

The training concluded with a reflection session led by Ms. Lucy Gikundi, where participants shared key takeaways, feedback, and commitments towards strengthening peer support networks within the University.

This initiative marks a significant step in enhancing student-centered support systems at the University of Nairobi. By equipping peer counsellors with the necessary knowledge and skills, the University continues to foster a supportive, responsive, and inclusive environment that prioritizes student wellbeing.

The collaboration with the UNESCO O3 Plus Project further underscores the University’s commitment to holistic student development, empowering young people to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.