Counselling Centre urges students to build healthy relationships, strengthen academic focus
By Bashirat Omotosho
The Director of the Counselling and Human Development Centre of the University of Ilorin, Dr Mulikat Mustapha, has said that the University would continue to encourage students to develop healthy relationships, set clear personal boundaries, and maintain strong academic focus as essential tools for success within and beyond the University.
Dr Mustapha stated this while speaking at a workshop organised by the Centre last Wednesday and Thursday (March 8 and 9, 2026), titled “Thriving in University and Beyond,” at the University Auditorium.
She explained that the workshop was deliberately structured to address key challenges students face, particularly in balancing social interactions with academic responsibilities.
Dr Mustapha explained that the session on building healthy relationships and boundaries was aimed at helping students understand the importance of self-respect, emotional intelligence, and the ability to set limits in their interactions.
She warned that failure to establish boundaries often leads to distractions, exploitation, and emotional strain, which can negatively affect students’ academic performance.
Speaking on “Building Healthy Relationships and Boundaries”, the resource person, Mr Abdullahi Salau Babatunde, emphasised that healthy relationships are fundamental to students’ emotional stability and academic success. In his presentation, he guided students on how to identify positive and supportive relationships, as well as recognise toxic patterns that could hinder personal growth.
On his part, Dr Salman Alawaye Aminullah, who spoke on “Mastering Personal and Academic Focus”, centred his presentation on helping students understand the critical role of focus and discipline in achieving academic excellence.
Declaring the workshop open earlier, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research, Technology and Innovation), Prof Muhtar Adeiza Etudaiye, urged students to approach the programme with seriousness, noting that its relevance lies in shaping their academic journey and personal lives.
The Vice Chncellor advised participants to listen attentively and internalise the lessons, stressing that success in the University requires more than intellectual ability, but also discipline, focus, and the capacity to manage relationships effectively.
Present at the event were the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Management Services), Prof. Olalere Adeyemi; the University Librarian, Prof Kamaldeen Tunde Omopupa; the Director of the Centre for Leadership and Management, Dr Odebode Aminat; a former Director of the Counselling Centre, Dr Bolu-Steve; and the Acting Dean of Student Affairs, Dr Alex Morenikeji Akanmu, among others.
