Exercise Your Right To Continue Learning on This Day of Freedom
On Freedom Day in South Africa, we take stock of how far society has advanced since the democratization of government. Naturally, a lot of people will consider where we are from the perspective of education.
Our constitutionally guaranteed right to an education is a prerequisite to our ability to freely pursue knowledge. But what if this right to education might be modified to be a little bit more specific? What if we could emphasize to the government, the business community, and the students themselves that “everyone has the right to a basic education, including adult basic education, at any stage in their learning journey”?
Education does not just occur during the designated time periods of seven years for basic education, five years for high school, and three to four years for university education. This impression, which is so pervasive, is constricting. It can cause students whose educational path is interrupted along the way by any one of a wide range of circumstances to feel defeated. “I failed Grade 10, and that’s it; I’ll never finish matric,” or “I didn’t finish matric, and I’ll never be able to get a job that requires it.”
The truth, however, is far different. The conclusion of one’s academic career is not indicated by a break. There are several opportunities available to learners and young adults who want to have the qualifications they need to further their studies or careers. No matter where you are in your learning process, you can always go back and keep going.
The reality and the perceptions that students have
When students fail or are required to take a hiatus from their studies, it is only reasonable that they feel constrained. When people explore for alternatives, they face so many barriers to entrance, but there are alternatives.
One common misconception is that it’s nearly hard to pass matric once you’ve failed it. However, any students who lack a matric and are 21 years or older may take the altered senior certificate (ASC). There is just one exam every year, which makes the process more difficult because you’ll have to wait a full year if you don’t obtain a position, but if you prioritize it, you should be able to get one. The objective is that eventually the existing scenario will change. Optimi College is also advocating for there to be two ASC exams per year.
A university degree is seen as the greatest or the only qualification, according to a second widely held belief. This is undoubtedly untrue as there are several TVET (technical and vocational education and training) institutions and universities that provide reputable credentials in a wide range of fields.
Additionally, many certifications offered by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) don’t even call for a matriculation.
Access to education has been greatly facilitated by the widespread availability of digital courses. Through online programs, students can study whenever it is most convenient for them and in addition to either part- or full-time employment, which can increase their chances of success. Technical, commercial, and information technology training in a wide range of worthwhile, in-demand degrees are among the alternatives provided by Optimi College.
Who is accountable for what?
Then, whose job is it to increase access to education and make it available at any point during the learning process?
Public-private collaborations are essential, there is no doubt about it. The numerous problems that the country is facing do not exempt South Africa’s educational system. The interconnection of South Africa’s numerous, ingrained, and systemic issues is demonstrated by the fact that a large number of students arrive at school hungry and are instructed by overworked, inadequately trained, and overburdened instructors in frequently darkened classrooms. The business sector must be involved in order for the government to effectively solve these concerns.
But learners themselves also bear some responsibility, if not all of it. The knowledge you need to proceed with your education—to finish high school, pursue a tertiary degree, or finish a course needed for an internship or job—is already available.
Do some research, go to local employment fairs, or ask local companies about their hiring procedures and community development initiatives. Be wary of phony institutions that lack valid registration, such as colleges and universities. Ensure that the organizations to whom you submit your application can provide a current registration number that the Department of Higher Education and Training can verify.
Even if you’ve taken a break from school, you have the right to prioritize yourself and return to it. Ask for help along the way if you need it. Companies like Optimi College can assist you in getting there.
