Protection of consumers of legal services of advocates in Tanzania: an analysis of law and practice

This study explored students’ understanding and attitudes towards counseling services in secondary schools using Kunduchi Ward in Kinondoni Municipality in Dar es Salaam city. In particular case it gamine how counseling services are delivered in secondary schools. Moreover it explores students attitudes towards counseling services in secondary schools. In additionally identify the level of knowledge and awareness of students on counseling services in secondary schools, also examine the student’s use of counseling services provided in secondary schools. The study employed qualitative and quantitative research approach. It deployed exploratory research design. Purposive and simple random sampling techniques were used to obtain 204 respondents, teacher counselors, students and heads of school. Data were collected through focus group discussions, interviews and documentary review. Data were presented, analyzed and discussed using content analysis. The study revealed that non-availability of teacher-counselors, lack prior counseling experience, negative attitudes of students towards guidance and counseling, level of training of teacher-counselors, the relationship between students and teacher counselors and lack of awareness of guidance and counseling services ,lack of resources and facilities for the guidance and counseling department, double role of teacher counselor, lack of appropriate time set aside from the school curriculum for guidance and counseling were among the factors that hindered students from seeking guidance and counseling services. It also revealed that students tend to seek help more frequently from teacher counselors of the same sex. Based on the result of the study, it was recommended that, the Ministry of Education and vocational Training should provide trained counselors to all secondary and primary schools. Guidance and counseling should be taught in teachers colleges and universities, counseling session should be included in schools timetable. Counselors should be supported materially and financially to execute their work effectively. From the above findings and conclusions, it was recommended that the other factors, other than the investigated ones that affect students' attitudes towards guidance and counseling should be studied and the hindrances to students' help-seeking behavior should be eliminated.