Author: Dorothy Lubawa (University of Iringa, Tanzania), Colletha Ngirwa, PhD, (Open University of Tanzania), Therecia Shavega, PhD, (Open University of Tanzania)
Abstract: This study examined the perceived influence of career Guidance and Counselling Services (GCS) on secondary school students’ academic performance among secondary schools in Tanga City. The study employed a mixed method approach that utilized a correlation design and a case study design. The sample size was 423 respondents, including 330 students, 26 heads of schools, 33 guidance and counsellor teachers, 33 academic teachers, and one City Educational Officer (CEO). The study used questionnaires, and semi – structured interview guides for data collection. The study concludes that the academic performance of the students is good; the career GCS services contribute to students’ academic performance. Furthermore, there is a significant positive relationship between students’ access to career GCS and their academic performance. Therefore, the study recommends the establishment of a strong policy on school GCS which will enable the effective implementation of the career GCS in the schools. Therefore, it is recommended that the services should be strengthened in the schools. The heads of schools should be in the forefront to make sure they establish strong and effective career GCS in their respective schools. Finally, students should be motivated to seek the career guidance services in addressing their academic challenges.