Last week Monday thousands of matrics received their examination results. After sleepless nights and stressful days and all the hard work put in proved to be worthwhile after all. To the class of 2014, you have done your family, peers and schools proud as well as the community of Estcourt. The first step will be taken as young adults into the outside world.
You’ve arrived at the crossroads in life between school and the real world. So what’s next? Following 12 long years of schooling, for the class of 2014, it’s finally all wrapped up – but, what now? Having recently completed matric exams, students’ options depend on a number of factors including whether or not they have passed, the results they have achieved and their financial situation, as well as their personal interests, strengths and abilities. For those who have passed their final exams with high marks and who have the financial means to study further, consider all of the options open to you.
An important factor to keep in mind, when deciding on a certificate, diploma or degree, is the market need for the skills specific to that qualification. After identifying where your interests and strengths lie, do some research as to what job opportunities align with your interests. Then, it would be advisable to research which of these jobs are needed by the job market and will guarantee you a better chance of finding a job once qualified.
For those who are less fortunate and do not have the option of formal tertiary education available to them, either because of inadequate marks or finances, there are still a number of ways to improve their skills, increase their employability and even get a qualification. One of these options is to apply for a skills or learnership programme with one of the 21 Sector Education and Training Authorities (Seta).
These institutions aim to develop and improve the skills of South Africans by placing and training them in a specific sector. Like choosing a university, college, or qualification, when choosing which Seta to apply for, be sure to consider your interests so that you can match them to a relevant Seta. For example, if you have banking related interests, contact Bank Seta for a possible learnership.
Another option is to gain practical workplace experience in a field that interests you, whether it be through an internship, learnership or as a volunteer. Although you may not be paid much – or at all – you will gain valuable work experience to add to your CV, learn valuable skills from more senior employees, and may even be offered a full time position with the company. Remember – no matter your circumstances – with a little determination, there is a world of opportunity open to you. Never allow your hard work go to waste, by being stuck with just a matric certificate and this huge dream that in the end may just eat on your soul. Never choose to play a victim. Fighting for what you believe in is never easy you will find obstacles and you will fall.
It’s within you to either give up or keep fighting as the saying goes ” It’s never about how much you fall, but it’s about how much you rise again”. Doors will be closed on you, even shut right in your face, but I believe if it was meant for you, it will be yours. Believe in yourself and never give up. I wish the class of 2014 the very best of luck into their steps of greatness and success in all sectors of life. Look out for next week’s edition of #fresh take as it will share the pros and cons of a gap year and will be looking at fraudulent universities to look out for.
