Form Four Leavers Urged to Choose Marketable Courses.
Education experts are advising KCSE graduates to seek career guidance from mentors, teachers, and parents before selecting courses to pursue in colleges and universities.
This approach aims to help students choose marketable courses that align with industry demands, ultimately boosting their employability upon graduation.
While addressing a group of Form Four leavers at Zetech University during a career guidance forum on Monday, experts emphasized the importance of informed decision-making.
Prof. Peter Kibas of Dedan Kimathi University highlighted that most higher learning institutions have updated their curricula to align with market needs, introducing new courses that many students are unaware of.
Prof. Kibas urged students to consult mentors for guidance and research institutions to understand their programs better. He advised against enrolling in outdated courses, noting the intense competition in the job market.
He also encouraged those with lower KCSE grades to explore bridging courses as a pathway to higher education, sharing his own journey from certificate-level studies to becoming a professor.
“Before selecting courses to pursue, have mentors for guidance. Research the institutions to understand their programmes better. Avoid pursuing old courses that have been overstudied. Competition for jobs out there is quite high,” Prof. Kibas said.
Opportunities for All
Chief Principal of Chania Boys High School, James Gitau, reiterated the value of students with C and D grades, emphasizing their potential to excel in fields such as hospitality, business, and technical education. These areas, he noted, are vital for national development.
To keep students engaged during the transition period, experts recommended pursuing short courses in areas like computer studies and driving. This, they said, would help reduce idleness and equip students with practical skills.
The forum received praise from students, including Otieno Ochilo, Brenda Nganga from Gaturi Girls High School, and Angela Njoroge from Mary Leakey Girls. They expressed appreciation for the insights gained, stating that the session had equipped them to make informed career choices.
John Mwai, Zetech University’s Director of Communication and Marketing, announced the introduction of new degree programs such as Nursing and Law to meet market demands.
He encouraged students to take advantage of the institution’s diverse academic offerings to achieve their career aspirations. Mwai emphasized that the forum aims to dispel the misconception that only top-performing students can excel in higher education.
“Low grades should not deter students from pursuing higher education. Even those who got below C+ grades have opportunities in universities. You need to bridge the courses starting from certificate through diploma, then degree,” Prof. Kibas assured.
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Summary of Recommendations
Key Advice for Form Four Leavers:
- Seek Guidance: Consult mentors, parents, and teachers before making career decisions.
- Research: Explore new courses and programs aligned with market demands.
- Bridge Courses: Utilize opportunities for higher education, regardless of KCSE grades.
- Short Courses: Engage in practical training during the transition period.
The experts reiterated that every student, regardless of their performance, has a chance to succeed through informed decisions and available opportunities.
Form Four Leavers Urged to Choose Marketable Courses.
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