Chrisland University Counselling and Psychological Services, CCAPS Hold Maiden Edition of Programme for Male Students

Chrisland University, through its Counselling and Psychological Services (CCAPS)  in collaboration with the Student Affair Unit, has organised the maiden edition of a special programme for male students titled “Building Responsible Men: Making Healthy Choices in the Hostel Environment.”

The workshop, designed to address pressing issues affecting male students within the university community, brought together students, faculty members, and administrators in an engaging and enlightening session focused on character development, responsible living, and informed decision-making.
In her opening remarks, the University Counsellor, Dr. Ngozi Eze, welcomed participants and outlined the objectives of the workshop. She noted that the initiative was conceived to equip male students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to navigate hostel life responsibly and productively. According to her, the programme aims to promote positive peer relationships, reduce risk behaviours, and encourage healthy lifestyle choices that align with the University’s standards and expectations.
Dr. Eze emphasized that hostel environments, while offering opportunities for bonding and independence, can also present challenges that require maturity and self-discipline. She encouraged students to take advantage of the University’s counselling services and support systems whenever they feel overwhelmed or uncertain.

Delivering the first lecture, the Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Taiwo Odunayo, addressed the topic “Peer Pressure, Hostel Culture and Risk Behaviour.” She spoke extensively on how peer influence within hostel settings can shape attitudes, habits, and life choices. Dr. Odunayo cautioned students against succumbing to negative peer pressure, noting that the desire for acceptance can sometimes lead to involvement in unhealthy or risky behaviours.
She highlighted common challenges in hostel culture, including substance abuse, academic negligence, and misconduct, urging students to be intentional about the company they keep. “Your association determines your direction,” she remarked, encouraging male students to cultivate friendships that inspire growth, discipline, and academic excellence.

In his presentation, Professor Augustine Onyeaghala the Dean of the College of Basic Medical Sciences  who gave the second lecture spoke on “Integrity, Self-Control and Healthy Decision Making.” He underscored the importance of personal values and moral strength in shaping a responsible man. According to him, integrity is the foundation of leadership and long-term success.
Professor Onyeaghala stressed that self-control is a critical virtue, particularly in environments where freedom and independence are newly experienced. He urged students to think critically about the consequences of their actions and to make decisions that reflect maturity and foresight.
There was an  interactive session that allowed students to ask questions and share experiences, fostering open dialogue on real-life situations faced within hostel environments and life in general. Participants expressed appreciation for the initiative, describing it as timely, insightful, and impactful.
Other members of staff present at the workshop are Mrs Dolapo Akintoye Public Relations Officer, Mrs Naomi Adeyemi Student Affairs Officer and other staff from the student affairs unit. The maiden edition of the programme underscores Chrisland University’s commitment to holistic student development, both academic, moral, and psychological. By focusing on character building and responsible living, the University continues to provide platforms that nurture not only intellectual growth but also personal integrity and social responsibility among its students.