Westside empowers learners through school-based career guidance

Laurance Goraseb
  • 1 Day Ago
On 4 September, Westside High School hosted a school-based career guidance programme designed to equip learners with the knowledge and insight necessary to make informed decisions about their academic and career goals. The programme was specifically aimed at learners in grades 7, 9 and 11, including those pursuing the Advanced Subsidiary (AS) Level.

The programme brought together a diverse panel of presenters, including administrators, lecturers, registered nurses and the psychological counsellor, Marcella Katjijova from the Ministry of Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment Creation. Katjijova introduced learners to psychometric testing, a tool used to assess aptitudes and guide career decision-making.

I-Care Health Institution presented its range of certificate courses and outlined the academic requirements for admission. The institution also announced the recent addition of pharmacy to its list of programmes. Similarly, the Community Skills Development Centre (COSDEC), a local Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) provider, showcased its practical courses, including welding, plumbing, carpentry, bricklaying, and plastering.

Learners were also introduced to COSDEC’s new course in solar installation, designed to support Namibia’s green hydrogen initiatives and sustainable development goals. Admission requirements for COSDEC include a minimum age of 18 years and completion of primary education (Grade 7).

Johnny Gamatham, a taxonomist, marine biologist and lecturer at the International University of Management (IUM), highlighted the institution’s diploma and degree programmes in areas such as Education, Business Administration, Accounting, and Nursing. Triumphant College also presented its diverse range of academic programmes offered across its Namibian campuses, together with entry requirements for prospective students.

The programme concluded with an exhibition session, during which learners visited institutional stalls, collected pamphlets and engaged in one-on-one discussions with representatives to gather additional information.

Reflecting on the success of the event, Ms Elina Titus, Life Skills teacher at Westside High, remarked that the learners showed keen interest in the presentations and gained valuable insights: “The programme was highly informative and gave learners fresh perspectives on the wide variety of career opportunities available to them.”

Through this initiative, Westside High underscored its commitment to preparing learners for higher education and the world of work.