EDUCATION stakeholders have emphasised the need for increased investment in education to enable teachers address diverse needs of learners, including psychotherapy.

Fixon Mtelesi, director of educational materials design and development in the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology said this at the weekend during opening of the International Career and College Counselling (IC3) forum which focused on integrating counselling into education system and training educators to meet learners' evolving needs.

Mtelesi stressed that well-equipped educators can better support learners' academic and emotional needs.

“Counselling plays a vital role in the holistic development of learners. Beyond academics, learners face emotional and social challenges. Counselling provides a safe space for them to express concerns, build resilience and make informed decisions, laying the foundation for success,” he said.

He also highlighted the unique challenges learners face these days such as adapting to rapid technological changes, managing peer relationships and preparing for   competitive future. Counselling, he said, helps bridge the gap between challenges and solutions, promoting self-awareness, confidence and   positive attitude essential for growth.

Equally important is the professional development of educators.

“Our teachers are the backbone of education system. Investing in their growth through workshops and development opportunities enhances their ability to guide learners and promotes a culture of continuous learning,” he stated.

Mtelesi added that well-trained educators can better identify and address learners' needs, including providing counselling support. 

“Our commitment to supporting both learners and educators lays the foundation for a brighter, more resilient future,” he said.

Dr. Shelina Wallii, CEO of Aga Khan Education Services Tanzania, echoed the importance of counselling, saying: “There should be counselling in every school and classroom.” 

She emphasized the need for teacher training in counselling to address challenges learners face and reflected in the government's commitment to educational reforms, including curriculum updates and teacher training initiatives.

“It’s vital to provide teachers with training and exposure to learn from each other and our partners to guide students toward success,” she added.

Veronica Sarungi, a mathematics teacher at Aga Khan Mzizima Secondary School, shared her approach to guiding pupils in academics and life choices, stressing the importance of engaging with pupils when they express doubts about subjects or career paths.

“We help them understand their passions and capabilities, guiding them towards career paths that suit their future goals,” she said. “It’s important for learners to discover not only what they want to do but also who they want to be and what they can achieve.”

Lyn Weke-Kyalo, International Baccalaureate (IB) programme coordinator at Aga Khan Education Service Tanzania, said that equipping educators with the right tools and strategies makes teaching more effective and rewarding.