Promoting Peaceful and Non-Violent Lifestyle Among Tertiary Education Students in Bayelsa State: The Case of Guidance and Counselling

This study explored the role of guidance and counselling in promoting peaceful and non-violent lifestyles among tertiary education students in Bayelsa State. A descriptive survey research design was employed. The study targeted students across various tertiary institutions in Bayelsa State, with a sample of 407 respondents selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, "Guidance and Counselling Programs for Peaceful Coexistence Questionnaire" developed and validated by experts, and found to have a reliability coefficient of 0.85 via the Cronbach Alpha Formula. Mean and standard deviation was used to answer the research questions. The findings indicated that while students frequently engage in non- violent practices and recognize the positive influence of counselling programs, challenges such as insufficient resources, low participation, and limited awareness hinder the full effectiveness of these services. The study recommended that increasing funding for counselling units and integrating peace education into counselling programs, are initiatives in promoting peaceful coexistence.