Guiding learners through their academic and career paths is crucial for keeping them in school and helping them make informed decisions about their futures. Recognising this, De Wildt Solar, in partnership with the Khenn Institute, is supporting more than 700 learners at Malatse Motsepe Secondary School, in the Madibeng Local Municipal area, with a Career Guidance and Leadership Development Programme.
This initiative, targeting Grade 10, 11, and 12 learners, aims to increase the number of learners pursuing further education while equipping them with key leadership and job-market skills for future success.
“By bringing essential information directly to the learners, the programme helps them craft meaningful career and academic strategies, positioning them as strong candidates for bursaries, internships, and learnership opportunities. These sessions inspire learners to believe in their potential, empowering them with the knowledge that could change the trajectory of their lives and the lives of their families,” said Qinisani SIveshe, Community Operations Manager for De Wildt Solar.
Throughout the programme, which began in April 2024 and will run until October 2024, learners participate in sessions that cover a range of crucial topics, including career choices; university options and entrance requirements; backup plans in case university admission is not achieved; study techniques and bursary applications; vision boards for setting future goals; and entrepreneurial paths linked to tertiary qualifications.
The Principal of Malatse Motsepe Secondary School expressed appreciation for the programme, stating, “The programme has a great impact on the learners, and I wish it could also cater to Grade 8 learners. It amplifies the work that the school does, and it’s always great for someone outside the school to put a stamp on what we always tell them.”
Additionally, De Wildt Solar provided further support to the learners by donating 270 copies of the book ‘Mindset of an A Student’ and 466 career development workbooks. To prepare the learners for bursary applications, a Grade 11 leadership breakfast was also held under the theme ‘Am I Ready to Apply for a Bursary?’
Moreover, the programme has had a positive impact on the local community by creating employment opportunities, with four locals hired as part of the initiative. A local female entrepreneur was also appointed to supply refreshments during the sessions, while a local photography company was used to capture moments from the leadership breakfast event.
