Not everyone dreams to become an academic, some students flourish in alternative skills. This year is the time where parents need to support their kids and make them aware of various crucial skills they can learn.
Other issues students experience are not being accepted in many universities because there is not enough space or their marks are not meeting the requirements.
As much as some parents think technology is the only alternative skills, psychologist and career counselling expert professor Kobus Maree says that “public universities and universities of technology are not the only opportunities that exist for schooling post-matric and that students should look to institutions like Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges and private colleges as alternatives.
However, it is highly recommended that you research and check if the higher institutions are registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training.
Kobus, told Careers Portal that students need to find something they can commit themselves to, something bigger than themselves in order to be successful. Ask themselves whether the career path they’re taking is about making money, offering service to people or helping the community.
Here are a few ideas of alternative learning you can ponder on post matric:
(TVET) colleges are an option for alternative higher learning, other diploma courses can help as a bridging course to University for a degree.
Planning on taking a gap year
Taking on a gap year isn’t necessarily a bad thing, especially if you’re still finding your feet as to which industry you feel is better suited for you.
For example, You can use the year to be an intern and volunteer in several projects that will help you make a decision.
Taking on an apprenticeship
Is an agreement between the individual who wants to learn the skill and the employer who needs a skilled worker – a win-win situation. You will gain practical skills on-site under the supervision of a qualified tradesman.
Taking on learnership
You can get theory and practical elements under the learnerships of Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA), which are funded by employers. These learnerships are aimed at addressing specific needs of the labour market.
