By Elizabeth Afurika

On September 13, 14, 20 and 21, the Peer Educators and Counselors Club (PECC) held their annual training. Sessions on the first day centered on the life of a peer counselor and speakers highlighted themes like the importance of self-awareness, and leadership qualities of an effective peer educator and counselor. To enhance the learning experience, all counselors conducted a final practical presentation on skills practice of individual and group counseling sessions.

The second level of training addressed matters of peer education including life skills, sexual and reproductive health, drug awareness, gender issues, disability & inclusion, and current trends among USIU-Africa students. These sessions provided invaluable information and highlighted the educator role that peer counselors have. Ms. Rachel Ngumi, Principal Gender Protection and Equity Officer, led a discussion which allowed prospective peer counselors to share their opinions and think critically on gender issues including gender-based violence. A final, student-led, sensitization session on Persons with Disabilities emphasized the club’s continuous effort to uphold values of inclusivity.

In attendance were Mr. Patrick Obel, Principal Counselor, Ms. Lydia Winda, Senior Counselor and PEEC Club patron, Ms. Adolphine Nyandoro, Senior Counselor, Ms. Rachel Ngumi, Principal Gender Protection and Equity Officer, Mr. Thomas Naron, Disability and Inclusion intern, Ms. Zina Nguru, Senior Counselor and Mr. Juma Damiano, Senior Counselor.