ABSTRACT
This study sought to determine the effectiveness of Life Skills programmes in three teachers’ colleges in Masvingo province namely: Masvingo, Bondolfi and Morgenster. In this study eight-five (85) student teachers, four (4) lecturers and three (3) nurses from the three colleges participated in the research project. Student teachers filled in questionnaires, lecturers and nurses were interviewed. The study showed that life skills programmes are quite effective in equipping student teachers with stress management skills, cognitive skills, social skills and emotional skills. The study also revealed that student teachers are equipped with information on HIV, AIDS, STIs and other health related information which play a major role in behaviour change.Though Life Skills programmes can be quite effective, the research study revealed that proper methodologies, technical support and lecturer motivation are of paramount importance in the implementation of these programmes. The study recommends that there is need for staff development programmes for lecturers so that they are equipped with relevant methodologies for life skills programmes. It is also necessary that these programmes be well funded so that they do not suddenly grind to a halt. Finally, it is also recommended that further research be undertaken in order to establish how best these life skills programmes can be implemented considering the large enrolments of teachers’ colleges
Keywords: Behavior Change., Cognitive, Emotional, Life-Skills, Programmes, Skills, Social, Teacher’s Colleges
