Tansi International College in Awka has taken swift action to address the deep sense of loss and trauma experienced by its students following the recent lightning strike on the school’s football pitch which claimed the lives of three students.
In the wake of the tragedy, the school has initiated post-trauma counselling sessions for all its students as a means of helping them cope with the emotional distress caused by the incident.
Rev. Fr. Fidelis Izuako, the school’s Principal, disclosed this information during a condolence visit to the school by the leadership of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Anambra Chapter.
Izuako explained that the lightning strike had a devastating impact on the school and its students, leaving them with deep emotional scars.
He further stated that the school’s psychologists have been working tirelessly to help the students overcome their fears, anxieties and shock in the aftermath of the event.
The counselling sessions are aimed at helping the students regain their sense of peace, calm and normalcy, and to help them overcome the trauma that they experienced.
Izuako also disclosed that the six students who survived the lightning strike are currently with their parents, where they are receiving support and counselling to help them regain their confidence and reintegrate into normal life.
Once they return to school, the six students will receive further personal counselling to ensure that they are fully reintegrated into school life and that they receive the support they need.
He commended Nigerians, including the sports writers, for their solidarity with the school and expressed gratitude for their support during this difficult time.
Chimezie Anaso, Chairman of Anambra SWAN, who led the condolence delegation, commended the school’s commitment to sports development, not just in Anambra but across the country.
He implored the school not to be discouraged by the unfortunate event or to allow it to discourage students from engaging in sports activities or developing their psychomotor domains.
The tragedy occurred on November 4 when lightning struck the school’s football pitch during heavy rainfall, hitting nine students and claiming the lives of three.
