Delhi Schools: Counsellor Gap Leaves Students Vulnerable

Educational institutions in Delhi must foster environments where children feel safe reporting concerning conduct. However, a significant shortage of trained counsellors in Delhi's government schools strains the support system, often leading to counsellors serving multiple institutions.

This deficiency means teachers frequently become the initial point of contact for students facing emotional distress, bullying, abuse, or problems at home, despite lacking specialized training. Experts emphasize that this gap hinders adequate professional support for students' psycho-emotional well-being.

To achieve an optimal student-to-counsellor ratio of 250-300, Delhi would need approximately 6,000 to 7,000 professionals. Even the Central Board of Secondary Education's guideline of 500 students per counsellor necessitates around 3,500 to 3,600 professionals.

Delhi's Directorate of Education currently employs about 489 educational and vocational guidance counsellors and over 500 teacher-counsellors. While EVGCs offer specialized support, teacher-counsellors assist alongside their teaching roles, addressing issues like safe touch and gender sensitization.

The shortage results in shared counsellors across campuses, delaying essential support. This situation can impede timely intervention for issues like exam stress, cyberbullying, family conflicts, and substance abuse, potentially affecting students' academic performance and self-esteem.

While schools incorporate well-being initiatives like yoga and mindfulness, educators stress these cannot replace the individualized support provided by a sufficient number of trained counsellors. Effective referral systems are crucial for identifying and assisting children in need.