Parental Guidance In Uni

(With: Clarice Liswani)

Clarice Liswani is a lecturer and social worker at Welwitchia University. She shares the importance of parental guidance for university students. Highlighting the importance of parental care in one’s life.

“Parents should be our guides, not our judges. University life comes with all sorts of new experiences, friendships, relationships, and personal growth. Sometimes, all we need is for our parents to listen and share advice without trying to control our choices,” she says.

Adding that when parents stay supportive and open-minded, we feel safer to talk about what’s really going on in our lives. It’s comforting to know that they’re there to guide us, not to criticize or dictate. “Being independent doesn’t mean shutting our parents out. It means making our own decisions while still respecting their input. We can still ask for their opinion, learn from their experiences, and then decide what feels right for us.

It’s about balance, listening, reflecting, and choosing. That’s how we grow. It’s also important for parents to understand that independence doesn’t equal distance; it’s actually a sign of maturity.” she shares. Liswani further added that having supportive parents makes a huge difference. Just knowing that someone cares, that there’s someone to call when things get tough, brings comfort.

When parents encourage us, check in, or remind us that they’re proud, it gives us confi dence. That emotional support helps us manage stress better, focus more on our studies, and stay grounded even when life on campus gets overwhelming.

“Communication is not always easy, but honesty helps. We should try to talk to our parents openly, even when the topic is uncomfortable. Starting with small updates about our daily life can make it easier to talk about bigger issues later. And when parents listen without judging or overreacting, it builds trust.

We’re more likely to open up when we feel heard and understood,” she added. Parents, be present but don’t control. Check in, ask how we’re doing, but also give us space to learn from our own experiences. Sometimes, we don’t need advice; we just need to be heard. Celebrate our small wins, encourage us when we fail, and remind us that you’re proud of us. A little support and understanding go a long way. In the end, university life is a journey of growth for both students and parents.

We’re learning how to be independent adults, but we still need guidance, love, and reassurance from home. When parents and students work together with trust and respect, it makes the university experience not only easier but also more meaningful.