With South Africa’s 2026 matric examinations in full swing, learners are preparing for a milestone that could shape their futures. But passing matric is only one part of the journey, with many young people still needing guidance on what to do next.
Also see: Miss SA Qhawekazi Mazaleni shares special message for 2026 matriculants
From choosing a study programme to finding work experience or exploring entrepreneurship, the transition out of school can be difficult to navigate, particularly for those without access to career guidance and professional networks.
Nkosinathi Moshoana, CEO of youth development organisation Primestars, believes young people need more than qualifications to access meaningful opportunities.
Should matriculants study or take a gap year?
For school leavers uncertain about their next move, Moshoana told BONA that no single route suits everyone.
Continuing studies can be a good option for learners with a clear career direction, an appropriate course and the funding to pursue it. However, enrolling simply because others are doing so could lead to costly decisions.
A gap year can also be useful when approached with a plan.
“You might use it to gain work experience, improve your matric results, develop a skill or explore a career before committing to further study,” Moshoana explained.
He also acknowledges that some young people do not have the luxury of choosing a gap year, as financial pressures, family responsibilities or limited study opportunities may delay their plans.
His advice is to prepare for final examinations while keeping track of application and funding deadlines, with an alternative plan in place.
Also see: Natasha Thahane shares encouragement while visiting matric Class of 2026
Building skills beyond the classroom
Moshoana encourages matriculants to use the months after school productively rather than wait for opportunities to come their way.
This could mean organising application documents, practising interviews with a trusted adult, learning digital skills or gaining experience through holiday jobs, community projects and job shadowing.
Small steps can make a difference. Young people can also explore business ideas by identifying needs in their communities before investing money.
While a matric certificate remains an important achievement, Moshoana says academic results alone cannot guarantee employment.
Employers also need to see practical abilities, including communication, problem-solving, teamwork and the responsible use of technology.
However, the CEO cautions against placing the entire responsibility on young people.
“We cannot demand experience while refusing to give them their first chance,” he says, highlighting the role employers have in creating opportunities for young people to learn and grow.
University is not the only option
For those planning their futures, Moshoana points to alternatives such as TVET colleges, universities of technology, apprenticeships, learnerships and occupational qualifications.
Entrepreneurship can also offer a pathway, provided young people have the necessary skills, support and access to customers.
Through Primestars, which runs educational and mentorship programmes in township and rural schools across all nine provinces, Moshoana aims to strengthen the connection between education and the workplace.
Its learning-to-earning approach seeks to support young people from school into further education, practical training, employment and sustainable self-employment.
He believes businesses, government, training institutions and community organisations must work together to make these opportunities accessible.
Ultimately, the goal is to ensure young South Africans are not left wondering what comes after matric, but have the guidance, skills and support to take their next step.
Featured image: Instagram/@empowaworx
Also see: How to help your matriculant stay positive during exam season
Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp channel for content worth tapping into. Click here to join!
