Nabasa Odiira
Volunteer Social Service Worker, St. Justino Secondary School, Kenya
Overview of role
I provide individual and group counseling to students who come to me on their own or who are referred by their teachers. In this capacity, I often serve as a bridge between students, their families, teachers, and the school administration on matters raised during counseling sessions. It is often necessary that I advocate on behalf of our voiceless students who have difficulties acquiring basic needs, such as sanitary pads, food and clothes and encourage other students who are more fortunate to give on behalf of those who are not as fortunate. I also provide guidance and counsel students on topics related to life skills, education and career planning and bring awareness to the school staff about the roles of a social worker in schools and guide the administration on matters concerning guidance and counselling.
Impact of this work
While change is not immediate and requires patience, I have seen a lot of positive changes working in the school.I see students’ behavior and educational performance improve. I have also seen some former students return to the school to give career and life advice to other students and I have seen current students more willing to participate in acts of mercy for those less fortunate. Importantly, I have also seen the school body start to value importance of guidance and counselling.
Motivation
When I was a child, I was inspired by motivational speakers who came to our school. Their talks helped me a lot as a young girl growing up in a village. When I was looking for a school to volunteer at, I asked the principal of my school if he would allow me to volunteer at his school at least once in a week. He was so excited that God sent me because the school didn’t have anyone to provide counselling.
Education/Training
Before joining the religious life, I completed a diploma in social development.
Most challenging aspects of job
The most challenging part is working on complicated cases such as drug abuse. And, because I don’t volunteer full-time, it is difficult to follow-up on major cases. I also find I have inadequate resources to support students most in need, and when I refer cases for additional support the parents are unable to pay for the support.
Importance of social service workers being located in schools
It very importance to have social service workers in schools because, according to my experience, so many students are students are experiencing drug abuse, domestic violence, family issues, or mental illness challenges. Students are also engaging in early relationships or having difficulty making career choices. Given the location of the school in a slum area, the students constantly face these challenges and others, and social services are needed to help tackle the different issues. I encourage my fellow social workers to take up this work. It is a calling, money will come later.
