Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi has called on the government to make it mandatory for every learning institution in the country to have a qualified counsellor to deal with the emerging challenges.

Mr Mwangangi said this should apply to all learning institutions from junior Secondary schools (JSS) to universities in a bid to address unrests and arsons that result from students' mental instability.

He said the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), should look into ways through which each school in the country should have a fully trained and qualified counsellor.

“Students today face challenges and pressures that need additional support from experts. Schools need to be equipped to assist students of all ages to cope better with the challenges in the institutions, transitioning from childhood to young adulthood, social media and so many other distractions in today's world,” the Machakos DG told AVDelta News on Friday.

He said the counselling should be designed in such a manner that it gives students a healthy outlet to safely discuss their problems, work together to resolve conflicts, improve behaviour, and help with social development.