IUN introduces diploma in school counselling

International University, Nagaland (IUN) has announced the launch of a one-year diploma course in school counselling, aimed at equipping graduates with practical skills to address rising stress, anxiety and emotional challenges among students and youth.
Informing that the state government, through SCERT, has adopted a policy to ensure the presence of at least one male and one female counsellor in every school—requiring an estimated 5,000 to 10,000 trained counsellors in the state—IUN director Prof. Zavise Rume said the diploma programme would provide hands-on training and foundational knowledge. Admissions are open till July, after which regular classes will commence.
Addressing a press conference at the university campus, Prof. Rume stressed that counselling has become an essential component in today’s educational and social landscape, identifying three major areas of urgent need—personal and social relationships, academic-related depression and career confusion. He noted that while parents and teachers were aware of student issues, they often lacked professional competence to address them effectively.
He pointed out that the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 underscores integration of counselling into the education system, promoting regular student support through mentoring, tutoring and career guidance. Highlighting its broader relevance, he said counselling is needed not only in schools but also in homes and workplaces.
Responding to queries, Prof. Rume acknowledged that one year was not sufficient to become a fully qualified counsellor, but explained that the diploma course was designed to prepare students to handle mild mental health concerns such as stress, relationship issues and basic career guidance. On the role of faith in counselling within Nagaland’s church-centric society, he remarked that counselling cannot be entirely separated from belief systems and welcomed students from theological backgrounds to enrol.
IUN Registrar Dr. Roopam Bachhil highlighted various courses offered by the university, noting that the institution, formerly known as Global Open University, Nagaland, was renamed International University, Nagaland in 2024 and has since transitioned into offering full-time regular courses.
Head of the Department of Physiotherapy, Dr. Varsha Tamang, informed that the university has a well-equipped BNYS laboratory and plans to start an OPD department soon, with a memorandum of understanding already signed in this regard.