As the class of 2024 looks forward to the future, experts have advised those who might still be undecided on what they want to study or whether they want to rewrite to think carefully about their next step.
Education Activist, Dr Corrin Varady, says learners should look into future ready skills like data analysis, coding and cybersecurity, among others.
The education activist in the clip below outlines how skills’ deficiency can negatively affect a country’s growth and development, and the need for key stakeholders to address this looming issue.
Last year, the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&RSETA) released a detailed report on the skills South African needs to acquire in order to successfully grow the economy.
Some of these include Software Developers, Specialist Medical Practitioners and STEM Teachers (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
https://www.wrseta.org.za/downloads/SKILLS%20FOR%20THE%20FUTURE%20FINAL%20REPORT.pdf
Feenix, a public benefit organisation that assists students in graduating debt-free, has also weighed in, emphasising the need for new tertiary entrants to develop resilience.
The orgnaisation’s business analyst, Rumbi Mvere, says this will help them navigate the challenges of tertiary life, which requires a gritty spirit.
The analyst urges first year students to use all resources available to help them along their journey.
A call has also been made for parents and guardians to offer their children emotional support as they embark on their new journey.
Mvere says many students find themselves crippled by challenges they face in varsity when they lack family support.
Some of the challenges first year tertiary students encounter include dealing with independence and the responsibility of holding themselves accountable for submitting assignments on time.
https://www.boston.ac.za/the-difference-between-high-school-and-varsity/
Mvere says parents and guardians should especially be there for those who are facing tough financial times and suggest alternative avenues for them to explore.
According to a recent Feenix report, resource deficiency is an underlying factor to most students’ mental health challenges.
When announcing the 2024 matric results, Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube, revealed that at least 10% of the learners failed their exams.
But Dr. Varady says all is not lost for the teenagers and they should not throw in the towel as there are a myriad of opportunitiesf or unsuccessful matriculants.
Dr Varady says the opportunity to upgrade their marks doesn’t only apply to those who failed but to those who might also want to improve their symbols.
Below is the link the education activist advises those who might be interested in taking up this opportunity to look into.
https://www.education.gov.za/Programmes/SecondChanceProgramme.aspx
However, Dr Varady at the same time warns that the above-mentioned route might not be solution for everyone.
Written by: Nokwazi Qumbisa
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