EMPOWERING YOUTH THROUGH CAREER GUIDANCE

November 2024.

Earlier this year, a Career Guidance and Leadership Development programme was launched to empower the youth in the Sol Plaatje Municipal area through targeted educational initiatives. Funded by Matla A Bokone Solar in collaboration with the local Department of Education, this initiative has equipped hundreds of learners in Grades 9, 10, and 12 across 11 local schools with essential skills and knowledge for life beyond high school, fostering a year of meaningful learning and personal growth.

“Our goal is to prepare our learners for life after high school and the world of work. The programme has provided these young individuals with the tools they need to confidently step into the future. Through sustained community investment, we remain dedicated to empowering our country’s next generation,” said Lesego Mosiane, Community Liaison Officer for Matla A Bokone Solar.

The programme launched with a career expo attended by over 1000 Grade 12 learners from 11 local high schools. Endorsed by the Department of Education, the expo introduced learners to a wide range of career paths, and provided insights into tertiary education requirements.

Exhibitors such as Absa, Rosebank College, Boston City Campus, ARMSCOR, and the University of the Witwatersrand engaged learners through interactive sessions and live displays on applications, data collection, and bursary information.

Motlalepula Bosman from the Department of Education Frances Baard District expressed gratitude, stating, “Matla A Bokone Solar truly cares about the future of our country, and we are thankful for their contributions to our schools.”

In addition, Grade 12 learners benefited from training modules focused on self-audit, leadership, and emotional intelligence, with over 900 learners participating. These sessions encouraged learners to calculate their Admission Point Scores (APS) and provided foundational skills for emotional intelligence and leadership.

Grade 10 learners across six schools benefited from modules on study skills, goal setting, and time management, which equipped them with practical tools to enhance their academic performance. The programme also expanded to include Grade 9 learners, with 1,256 learners participating in modules on self-awareness, subject choices, and journey mapping to plan their academic futures.

Furthermore, the programme assisted Grade 12 learners with their tertiary applications, encouraging them to apply strategically based on their academic results.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to apply for university, as I wasn’t sure how I would manage it on my own,” shared Omphile Limpane, a Grade 12 learner at Tshireleco High School.