PSYCHOSOCIAL PROBLEMS AND COUNSELING NEEDS OF UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS, A CASE STUDY OF FACULTY OF EDUCATION AND EXTENSION SERVICES, USMANU DANFODIYO UNIVERSITY, SOKOTO.

This study investigated the psychosocial problems and counseling needs of undergraduate students in the Faculty of Education and Extension Services, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto. The major objectives were to identify the psychosocial problems confronting undergraduate students, determine their counseling needs, and explore gender differences in the nature and extent of these problems. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. A total of 324 students were selected from a population of 3,242 using a stratified random sampling technique to ensure adequate representation across the departments of Science and Vocational Education, Educational Foundations, Curriculum Studies and Educational Technology, Adult Education and Extension Services, and Library and Information Science. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire consisting of four sections and analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages.The findings revealed that undergraduate students face diverse psychosocial problems, including academic stress, emotional instability, poor study habits, financial difficulties, peer pressure, and interpersonal conflicts. The study also showed that many students have significant counseling needs, particularly in the areas of academic adjustment, emotional management, and career guidance. Results further indicated slight gender differences in the perception and type of psychosocial problems encountered. Based on the findings, the study recommended that the university management should strengthen the guidance and counseling unit, organize regular counseling and sensitization programs, and provide adequate psychological support services to help students cope effectively with their psychosocial challenges. It was also suggested that professional counselors should be employed and equipped with the necessary resources to provide timely and effective counseling interventions.