INFLUENCE OF GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING ON STUDENTS ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN EKITI STATE

ABSTRACT: The study was conducted to ascertain the efficacy of counselling services in Ekiti state, employing the descriptive survey research methodology as the chosen approach. The research sample encompasses the student populace attending secondary educational institutions within the geographical boundaries of Ekiti state. These educational institutions encompass a diverse range of scholastic establishments, including boarding schools, day schools, and private schools. A total of four (4) educational institutions within the region of Ekiti state were meticulously chosen as representative samples. From each of these schools, a sample size of fifty (50) students was carefully collected, ensuring a fair and unbiased representation of the population. The research methodology employed in this study involved the utilisation of random sampling techniques, thereby enhancing the validity and reliability of the findings. The research employed a questionnaire as the primary instrument for data collection, while data analysis was conducted using the straightforward method of calculating simple percentages. The principal discovery of this study pertains to the prevailing inclination among female students towards the medical profession. Additionally, it is noteworthy to observe a substantial rise in the educational attainment of parents, which has had a discernible impact on the aspirations of students towards pursuing advanced education. Furthermore, it has been discerned that parental figures possess no discernible capacity to exert direct influence upon the vocational preferences and decisions of their progeny. It has been suggested that the responsible authorities should ensure that students receive adequate guidance in order to make informed decisions regarding their career paths. Furthermore, there is a need to actively promote and encourage female students, particularly in northern Nigeria, to pursue careers in the medical profession. We further advocate for the organisation of diverse guidance and counselling initiatives by educational authorities, wherein individuals well-versed in their respective fields are invited to deliver lectures on various professions, particularly targeting students in their final year of study.