Following the release of the matric results of 2021, countless young people will be faced with the need or desire to adjust their study plans for this year because they did not perform as expected.
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Many others will be faced with the happy news that their options have increased as a result of better than expected results whether this is the eligibility to enrol for higher education or enrol for a different qualification.
“Regardless of your results, it is always a good idea to review and reflect on your study plans before embarking on your first year, as there is still time to change course if you are not sure you are on the right path.
“And if you are now eligible to apply for higher education study, you should investigate your options as a matter of urgency,” said Linda Fekisi, head of the programme at The Independent Institute of Education.
Fekisi said that matrics from the Class of 2021 may find themselves in one of the following categories following the release of results:
• The learner’s performance was in line with expectations and their plans are not impacted because of results.
However, the learner may have doubts about their chosen study plans.
• The learner performed better than expected and university study is now a possibility, but they have not yet enrolled with an institution.
These learners could still land a place at a higher education institution if they move swiftly.
• The learner did not perform optimally and may no longer qualify for the study path or institution they have applied for.
These learners have the option of considering other qualifications for which they may be eligible, or the option of pursuing a higher certificate as the first qualification.
“The good news is that those learners who still want to apply for further studies this year may yet be able to land a place studying towards a quality, high-in-demand qualification if they move quickly,” said Fekisi.
She added that while applications have closed at most public universities, private higher education institutions may still have limited places available to those who move fast.
“However, you must do your homework to ensure you enrol with an institution that is well-respected in the industry and is registered and accredited.
“Do not fall prey to fly-by-night colleges and speak to current and past students to make sure an institution is a right fit for you and able to deliver on their promises.”
Fekisi said numerous in-demand qualifications may still be taking applications, which prospective students would do well to consider.
These include, but are not limited to:
Information technology
Qualified and capable IT professionals are in higher demand than ever before, and this is likely to remain the case well into the future.
Career options to consider include software developer or engineer, web developer, mobile app developer, cyber security specialist, data scientist and IT/business analyst.
Qualifications leading to these careers include, inter alia, higher certificate in IT in support services; Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences in Network Engineering, Application Development, Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences in Game Design and Development; Bachelor of Information Technology in Business Systems; DIT in Network or Software Management, and a range of IT-related higher certificates.
Finance
The demand for graduates who are competent in the theory and practice of accounting remains across organisations from start-ups to multinationals.
A finance qualification, such as a Diploma in Business Accounting or a Higher Certificate in Bookkeeping will position graduates for a successful career in the industry.
Business
The combination of management and business skills is a potent one that will position graduates to climb the career ladder from day one.
Qualifications cover a number of fields, including local governance, logistics and supply chain management, human resources, event management and business management.
Brand communication and copywriting
Traditionally, the idea of becoming a copywriter was closely associated with the advertising industry.
However, a good writer today will find their skills in high demand in a variety of fields, including the corporate world, web development, public relations, content creation, SEO writing, UX writing, digital community management, social media management and content strategy.
A BA in Creative Brand Communications and Copywriting or a Higher Certificate in Communication Practices will position graduates strongly within the jobs marketplace.
“The key message for anyone who wants to study this year is to ensure they carefully consider their unique skills, their career dreams and current and prospective future demand for their skills when considering their qualification.
“And then to find a highly rated institution with a curriculum grounded in what the industry requires from these professionals, with a strong work-integrated learning component.
“Time is running out fast, but for those matriculants who are serious about career success, 2022 can still open up exciting new opportunities.”
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