Media Release
Belagavi, Oct 9: In a significant step towards strengthening student well-being and holistic education, St Paul’s High School, Camp, Belagavi, organised a two-day Counsellor Training Programme for teachers on October 8 and 9 as part of its Basic Counselling Course. Staff members of St Paul’s High School, St Paul’s Jesuit School, Belagavi, and St Paul’s School, Khanapur, participated in the programme.
The sessions were conducted by Fr Joyson Vaz, SJ, and Fr Dheeraj D’Souza, SJ, who guided the participants in developing essential counselling skills to understand and support students more effectively.
Introducing the resource persons, Fr Eric Mathias, SJ, principal of St Paul’s High School, highlighted the growing importance of counselling skills in an age increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence, digital technology and social media. He emphasised that teachers must go beyond academic instruction to understand students’ emotional needs, listen to their concerns with empathy and guide them with patience and sensitivity.
The programme focused on self-discovery, active listening, empathy, effective communication and practical counselling techniques. Through interactive activities, group discussions and role-playing exercises, teachers gained valuable insights into recognising students’ emotional challenges, responding constructively to their concerns and providing appropriate guidance.
The training reaffirmed that teachers are not merely educators but also mentors and trusted guides who play a vital role in shaping the emotional well-being, confidence and overall development of young people.
The two-day programme was an enriching learning experience for the participating staff from all three institutions. It reinforced the Jesuit commitment to holistic education and the creation of a caring, supportive and emotionally safe environment where every student feels heard, understood and valued.
The initiative reflects St Paul’s commitment to empowering educators with the knowledge, skills and sensitivity needed to accompany students in their academic, personal and emotional journeys.