Principal Student Counsellor (Grade 12)

Taita Taveta University is seeking a Principal Student Counsellor (Grade 12) to lead student welfare and psychological support services. This is a re-advertisement for a critical role aimed at ensuring the psychosocial well-being of the student community through professional counseling, program development, and crisis intervention.\n\n### Role Overview\nThe Principal Student Counsellor is responsible for managing the counseling unit, developing support programs, and delivering psychological services. The role requires a candidate with high-level expertise in counseling psychology and the ability to handle complex student crises and mental health challenges.\n\n### Key Responsibilities\n- Lead the development and implementation of university-wide student counseling programs and wellness initiatives.\n- Provide individual and group counseling sessions to students addressing academic, personal, and psychological challenges.\n- Execute crisis intervention and manage emergency psychological support services.\n- Advise university management on trends and policies related to student mental health and welfare.\n- Maintain accurate and confidential counseling records and department reports.\n- Coordinate with other student service departments to enhance the overall university support structure.\n- Ensure the counseling unit adheres to national ethical standards and professional psychological practices.\n\n### Requirements and Qualifications\nCandidates must meet either of the following criteria sets:\n\nOption 1 (PhD Path):\n- Must possess a PhD degree in Counseling Psychology or a relevant field from a recognized institution.\n- Three (3) years of experience as a Senior Student Counsellor I or a comparable position.\n\nOption 2 (Master's Path):\n- Must possess a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology or Guidance and Counseling from a recognized institution.\n- Five (5) years of experience as a Senior Student Counsellor I or a comparable position.\n\nGeneral Requirements for Both Paths:\n- Demonstrable experience in program development, crisis intervention, and psychosocial support.\n- Registered with the Kenya Counselling and Psychological Association (KCPA) or Counselors and Psychologists’ Board or any other recognized professional body.\n- Valid Certificate of Good Conduct.\n- Must be computer literate with exemplary work performance.\n\n### Terms of Service\n- The position is offered on Permanent and Pensionable Terms.\n- Successful candidates will receive applicable allowances as approved by the University Council.\n\n### How to Apply\nCandidates must follow both application modes below by Tuesday, 17th March, 2026, at 5:00 pm:\n\n1. Soft Copy Application: Email your application to dvc-afp@ttu.ac.ke.\n2. Hard Copy Application: Send one (1) hard copy addressed to:\n The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration, Finance and Planning)\n Taita Taveta University\n P. O. Box 635 – (80300), VOI\n\nNotes:\n- Include a detailed CV (with telephone number and email address), copies of academic and professional certificates, and testimonials.\n- Specify the position and quote the reference number REF NO: TTU/AD/SW/PSC/01/02/2026 on the envelope and application letter.\n- Recommendations from two (2) referees should be sent separately to the address/email provided above.\n- Taita Taveta University is an equal opportunity employer; women and persons with disabilities are highly encouraged to apply. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.