THE EFFECT OF SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL LEARNING ON STUDENTS ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE (A CASE STUDY OF NORTHWEST UNIVERSITY, KANO)

This study examines the impact of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) on students’ academic performance at Northwest University, Kano. SEL is a framework that helps students develop essential life skills such as self-awareness, emotional regulation, interpersonal skills, and responsible decision-making, which are critical for both academic and personal success. The research aims to determine whether SEL programs positively influence students’ academic performance by enhancing their emotional well-being, engagement, and resilience. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design, using a structured questionnaire to collect data from 100 students from faculty of Social Science. The data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including frequency tables, percentages, and correlation analysis. The findings reveal a strong positive relationship between SEL participation and students’ academic performance, with students involved in SEL programs demonstrating higher GPAs, improved class participation, and better stress management skills. Additionally, students who practiced emotional regulation and interpersonal communication skills reported increased motivation and concentration in their studies. The study concludes that SEL plays a significant role in academic success by fostering emotional resilience, reducing stress, and promoting positive peer relationships. It recommends that universities integrate SEL into their curricula, provide training for lecturers on SEL strategies, and establish counseling and support services to enhance students’ emotional and academic development. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the importance of SEL in higher education, particularly in the Nigerian context, and serves as a guide for policymakers and educators seeking to enhance student learning outcomes.