MKU Founder Advocates for Guidance and Counseling Training to Replace Corporal Punishment

In a bold move to revolutionize education and safeguard the environment, Mount Kenya University (MKU) founder, Prof. Simon Gichuru, has urged the Ministry of Education to mainstream guidance and counseling training for all teachers. This call comes as an alternative to corporal punishment in schools, aiming to address negative behavior more sustainably.

A Paradigm Shift in Discipline

Prof. Gichuru, a staunch advocate for positive change, criticized caning during a recent press conference. He emphasized that it does not provide the ultimate solution to molding behavior and argued for the implementation of guidance and counseling training for teachers.

“Counseling is more sustainable in helping learners develop life skills to manage their challenges,” he stated passionately. His words echoed a growing concern among educators and parents alike, who are increasingly seeking non-violent methods to discipline children.

The professor also drew attention to the rise in criminal cases, attributing this alarming trend to the prolonged absence of learners from busy school programs.

Empowering Teachers with Skills

To facilitate this shift, MKU announced its plan to offer short courses in guidance and counseling for teachers. By equipping educators with these essential skills, they aim to foster a supportive learning environment that encourages personal growth and development.

“We believe that teachers play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our nation,” said Prof. Gichuru, emphasizing the importance of investing in their professional growth.

Promoting Alternative Energy

In addition to his focus on education, Prof. Gichuru also addressed environmental concerns. He urged county governments to promote the use of alternative energy to reduce land degradation.

Highlighting the potential of biogas generated from livestock manure, he encouraged a shift from charcoal and firewood. This call aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and preserve natural resources for future generations.

In a testament to his commitment, Prof. Gichuru reported that 16 energy centers have been established in 16 counties. Moreover, the government is collaborating with all county governments to provide infrastructure for one in every county.

Impressively, 95% of schools in the area are connected to the national grid, while the remaining are either connected or being connected to the solar system.

As Prof. Gichuru’s vision unfolds, the landscape of education and energy in Kenya stands to transform significantly. His call to action underscores the power of holistic approaches in addressing societal challenges, emphasizing the integral role of guidance, counseling, and alternative energy in shaping a brighter tomorrow.

In this era of change, the seeds sown today through innovative training programs and sustainable energy initiatives promise a future where learners thrive in nurturing environments, and communities prosper in harmony with nature.