Counsellors being appointed by municipalities
Better late than never. The academicians have realised the importance of school social work. Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation has appointed 23 counsellors in its 118 schools.
School Social Work was an integral part of Social Work education and was being implemented successfully in Nagpur for several years. It was closed later for reasons better known to the authorities. With the growing instances of children facing psychological problems, academicians have realised the importance of counsellors in schools. Under the National Education Policy first, the timing of primary schools was changed, and the curriculum was reframed to suit the psychology of children at tender age. Now need of counsellors is felt and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipality took the initiative.
Some private schools had already adopted the method. Looking at the growing rush at psychological consultants and psychiatrists, the changing behaviour of children became a major cause of concern for parents and society.
The school counsellors will handle at three levels – students, parents and teachers, by understanding the emotional, physical and developmental needs of the children.
The school education department has realised the importance of trained counsellors at the school level. The first step has been taken through the municipal schools in Maharashtra. The process of appointing social work or psychology graduates and post-graduates as counsellors has been initiated. They will be selected after conducting a written test to evaluate their knowledge and aptitude. At least one year’s experience is desired for the post.
In Nagpur Matru Seva Sangh Institute of Social Work had conducted a school social work project for several years. It was subsequently closed.