Student Counsellor, Student Life-AKU Provost at Aga Khan University Hospital

Job Purpose/Summary 

Reporting to the Manager, Student Experience, the University Counselor will Coordinate student counselling and promotive, preventive, and curative health services at the University Centre. Link students’ health needs to relevant service points in the hospital, carry out required follow-up, and provide updates to relevant offices (Student Experience) on student health requirements/ status.

Key Roles and Responsibilities 

• Develop and implement counselling strategies for students at the university.
• Conduct individual and group counselling sessions to advise and assist students in academic development.
• Crisis Intervention - Respond promptly to mental health emergencies, including suicidal ideation, trauma, or acute psychological distress.
• Promote Mental Health Awareness - Organise workshops, awareness days, and campaigns to reduce stigma and promote mental wellness across campus.
• In consultation with the counselling and mental health department in the hospital and other contracted services, refer any cases for specialised services.
• Assist in compiling a record of useful information on guidance/counselling, and coordinate with other relevant offices to make it available to students.
• In consultation with the office of student experience, participate in organizing educational seminars and workshops for students in the field of guidance and counselling.
• Generate Monthly activity reports.
• Keep appropriate data and update stakeholders for the purposes of planning and evaluating student health care needs and services.

Experience and Qualifications

• At least 3 years of continuous experience in Counselling.
• At least a bachelors degree in counselling from a recognised Institution.
• Prior experience working with adolescents and young people in a higher education Institution is an added advantage.
• Basic knowledge in research.
• Proficiency in both spoken and written English.
• Must be registered as a Counsellor with a reputable body
• Certification in Basic Life Support will be an added advantage.
• Organized and can work under time constraints.
• Flexible in an environment of multiple tasks and changing priorities.
• Have good interpersonal relations.
• Have skills in handling students’ problems and welfare.
• Work successfully and independently in a team environment.
• Must have a high degree of professionalism, integrity, and dependability.
• Demonstrate respect and concern for students and other staff members.
• Communicate effectively and tactfully in both oral and written forms.