The University of Zambia (UNZA) says there has been a decrease in the number of students accessing counseling-related services in 2024 compared to previous years.

UNZA Counselling Center Acting Senior Counsellor, James Nyimbili, reveals that in 2023, over 2,000 students accessed counseling-related services, while in 2024, the number dropped to over 1,200. 

In an interview with ZANIS, Mr Nyimbili attributed the decrease to a lack of enough counsellors to attend to students at the facility, adding that this shortage has affected the effectiveness of conducting more awareness activities.

Mr Nyimbili added that students were not able to access the services in December as most were preoccupied with exams and other commitments.

“Under the academic category, we had 209 clients. For the psychosocial category, we had 141 clients. Accommodation-related cases were 183, while career guidance cases were 177. In the career guidance category, we had 100 clients.

“We recognise that mental health issues among students are on the rise. Each time a student commits suicide, there is heightened concern about whether we are doing enough to support students,” he explained.

Mr Nyimbili stated that if the centre were fully staffed, more awareness campaigns and proactive interventions could be implemented.

He has appealed to students to visit the facility and seek help, as it is available to offer various services.

Meanwhile, University of Zambia student, Stephen Nkhata, commended the counselors for effectively addressing his health and academic concerns.

Mr Nkhata urged other students not to shy away from visiting the facility, as he assured them that any problems shared with counsellors remain confidential.