Page 44 - Intra Muros November Issue 2024

TODAY’S CHILD

Consider the following alternatives:

• Technical and vocational training
colleges
Vocational training programmes and
technical colleges offer specialised
education in various fields such as
engineering, healthcare, information
technology and the arts. These
institutions often have more flexible
admission requirements and provide
practical, hands-on experience that can
lead directly to employment.

• Distance learning and online education
Distance learning and online education
have become increasingly popular and
accessible. These programmes offer
flexibility for students to learn at their
own pace and often at a lower cost than
traditional universities. Many reputable
institutions offer accredited online
courses and degrees.

• Bridging courses and foundation
programmes
For students who may need to meet the
direct entry requirements for university,
bridging courses and foundation It is essential, however, to ensure that for students and parents. The uncertainty
programmes are an excellent option. you confirm your qualifications. The SA surrounding university admissions adds to
These programmes are designed to help Qualifications Authority (SAQA) must the stress, but it’s essential to remember
students build the necessary skills and register all qualifications in South Africa, that there are numerous paths to success.
knowledge to qualify for their desired and the provider must appear on the
courses in the future. Department of Higher Education and “By exploring alternative education options,
Training’s list of licensed providers. managing stress effectively and keeping an
• Internships and learnerships open mind, students can find fulfilling and
Internships and learnerships provide The Council of Higher Education oversees rewarding career opportunities regardless
valuable on-the-job training and public and private higher education of the outcome of their university
experience. These programmes allow providers. applications.
students to earn while they learn, so
they gain practical skills and industry Dr Meyer concludes: “Starting from Grade “The journey to success is rarely a straight
insights that can be highly advantageous 11, the period leading up to and following line, and flexibility and resilience are vital
in the job market. Contact the Sector matric exams is undoubtedly challenging to navigating it successfully.”
Education and Training Authority for
further information. ABOUT DR LINDA MEYER

Dr Linda Meyer is MD of the Independent Institute of
• Private higher education institutions Education’s Rosebank College. She has held several
The only significant difference between executive roles in the public and private sectors. She is
a registered and accredited private a serving member of the SAQA Board and holds several
higher education institution (PHEI) and qualifications, including Doctor of Philosophy (RSA),
a public university is that the former is Doctor of Business Administration (USA), Master of
not government funded. PHEIs remain Business Administration (UK), Post Graduate Diploma in
a valuable alternative to studying at a Management Studies (UK), Bachelor of Business Administration, BCom (Law) and several
public university, and their graduates are other diplomas, higher certificates and professional certifications.
in high demand in the workplace.

42 | INTRAMUROS NOVEMBER 2024