THE lack of both youth development and career guidance are major problems facing Mzansi.
Ahead of Youth Month, Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga said that even though a lot had been done to develop the young, there was still more to be done.
This is why the College for Business and Maritime Studies has taken up the task to develop the youth of Mzansi, one step at a time.
Head of the college, Holger Schonfeld, told SunEducation that they were dedicated to seeing South African youth learn important skills.
“It is not just a cliché that the youth are the future. If we nurture them today, tomorrow they will be more equipped to turn this country’s challenges into opportunities.”
Starting in 2015, the business and maritime studies college has reached out to more than 100 000 mainly rural pupils throughout Gauteng.
“We visit schools in underprivileged communities and offer concise career guidance as well as taking them through the career and education opportunities available in the maritime, business, computer studies and logistics areas.”
Dubbed the Education Roadshow, the maritime college visits select rural schools in Gauteng where they cover the critical importance of education, leadership, communication, career choices and tertiary education.
Audrey Nkunzi, a grade 11 pupil from Matlasedi Secondary School in Matlosana, said she felt enlightened after being addressed by the lecturers from the maritime college.
“The kids at my school and neighbourhood look up to musicians and celebrities. They feel that being a musician is the only way to be successful. I know this is not true. Education is important and that is what I learnt from the college.”
The maritime college is currently only available in Gauteng but likely to expand to the other provinces should there be enough sponsors.
Those pupils who want to enquire about the college’s midyear intake, or want career guidance or counselling, should contact the maritime college on 011 339 1301 or email [email protected] or visit www.maritimecollege.co.za
