Alternative options for matriculants
JOBURG – With matric results out already, many may not be able to study further but there are other options.
Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator offers a solution for many unemployed matriculants who are uncertain about the prospects of their future.
Currently, about 46 per cent of matriculants is unemployed and unable to further their studies.
“Youth in general struggle to find their first job because of a high premium on work experience and other challenges like high transport costs and poor social networks, those who battle most are matriculants from townships or disadvantaged schools,” said Harambee Youth Empowerment Accelerator spokesperson Lee-Ann Shepherd.
However, Harambee has assisted over 45 000 first-time work seekers since its inception in 2011. The non-profit social enterprise that tackles youth unemployment has a screening and assessment methodology that scientifically matches candidates to suitable work opportunities in companies across the retail, hospitality, financial services, insurance, business process outsourcing, technical and industrial sectors.
“When the 2017 matric results are released, Harambee’s experts will be available nationally to discuss ‘you have a matric, now what?’ on the day or anytime thereafter.”
Unemployed matriculants are, therefore, invited to apply to Harambee to potentially become part of their work-readiness bridging programmes. To apply, visit their website on www.harambee.co.za
Meanwhile, Udersh Mahesh, who holds a BSc in electronic engineering, has shared some advice for matriculants after receiving their results. Mahesh said there are two keystones that have served him on his journey from school to campus, corporate world and to entrepreneurship. Those keystones were never to stop learning and to be willing to fail.
“As a baby, when you were learning to walk you would have fallen many times, yet persevered, simply because you had no fear or context of failure back then. It was just another exciting opportunity to try again in an amazing new world. Rediscover this mindset and use it to serve yourself and others,” Mahesh said.
He also encourages matriculants to commit to a culture of incredible service, to go the extra mile and always ask themselves how they can best serve the greatest number with the greatest impact on society. “That is surely a way to fulfilment and ultimately success.”
What other opportunities exist for unemployed matriculants who can’t further their studies? Share your views in the comments section
