Post Matric, EFN 2013

POST • FREE STATE STERN CAPE EA | 3 01 2

atric

N CAPE • NORTHER

MORE CAREER IDEAS INSIDE

•INSIGHTS •STUDY TIPS •IDEAS •GUIDANCE •FINANCE

IT’S YOUR FUTURE

don’t blow the

audition

a word from the ed

TO INFINITY AND BEYOND

EDITOR

Samantha Collins sam@yesmedia.co.za ART DIRECTOR / DESIGNER

Clare Schenk clare@yesmedia.co.za PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR

Ursula Munnik ursula@yesmedia.co.za COPY EDITOR

Olivia Main CONTRIBUTORS

Neil Gardiner, Peter Rudden, Christina Kennedy, Robbie Stammers, Lara Terner, Kim Maxwell PROJECT SALES MANAGER

Charlton Peters charlton@yesmedia.co.za ADVERTISING SALES

Priscilla September, Shakier Groenewald, Max Maqagi

TEL 021 447 6467 FAX 021 447 6351 E-MAIL info@yesmedia.co.za POSTAL ADDRESS PO Box 44383,

Claremont 7735, South Africa www.yesmedia.co.za

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PUBLISHER Yes! Media CEO Deon Muller WEB DESIGN re-Fresh

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Post Matric is published by Yes!Media. All copyright in material appearing in this magazine belongs to Yes!Media and/or the individual contributors. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor or Yes!Media.

No responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions in the contents of the magazine.

OUR COVER

P H OTO :

P E T E R

R U D D E N

Post Matric ISSN number 2074-4412

How many times has a well-intended adult advised you not to dwell on the past; not to waste your time focussing on regrets?

Probably more times than you can remember.

Another pearl of wisdom that has no doubt been passed down to you by those who have gone before is that you should ‘always be true to yourself’.

Truth is that, although at times hard to live by, both these expressions make a lot of sense. Living in the moment and focussing on the positive are far better strategies than beating oneself up about past mistakes, and there’s absolutely no point in trying to be someone that you’re not!

I’ve decided to get into the spirit of being true to myself by sharing a truth with you... I flunked high school. There, I said it! I went from being a top student, to failing a series of crucial exams. I lacked direction, made bad choices, hung out with bad influences and failed to focus on what really mattered at the time.

Luckily, I managed to pick myself up, shake off the debris and go on to make a success of my life. I have enjoyed a challenging and satisfying career in publishing that has afforded me a good lifestyle and many opportunities to travel and to meet or work with some fantastic people.

However, my earlier experiences did leave me with a regret or two, and they go something like this: I wish I had embraced that precious (and short – in the big scheme of things) time at school.

I wish I had applied myself to the best of my ability and run with every opportunity presented to me. I wish I had walked out of there with a bunch of qualifications that would serve as a starting point in proving to the world just what I was capable of. That way I wouldn’t have had to work quite so hard over the last twenty years proving this from scratch.

I hope this magazine will help you to do what I didn’t do by providing you with some inspiration to work towards, and some solid advice on how to get there.

Use school/college/varsity as a springboard to catapult you into the future of your dreams. At the end of the day, doing yourself proud is what matters the most – the rest will happen naturally :-)

COVER CREDITS JO SPIES

Sam Collins EDITOR: POST MATRIC post matric 2013

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CONTENTS 30

09

10 ENTERTAIN YOURSELF

62 Surviving First Year FEATURES

10

The Reluctant Celebrity

Randall Abrahams believes celebrity status doesn’t mean you’ve made it.

19 How to Get Ahead Without a Degree

S P I E S

Internships, private colleges and onthe-job training in the spotlight.

J O

23

C E R V O ;

Desperately Seeking Degree

P H OTO S :

S H U T T E R S TO C K / D I E G O

Not prepared to compromise?

How to play qualification catch-up and win.

25

Funding Made Easy

The plan of action for those who can’t afford tertiary education.

19

30

Study Make-or-Break Time

Top tips on how to study effectively and cruise those Matric exams.

Advice on surviving your first year of tertiary study from those who have bravely gone before you.

64 Cram, Bam, No Thank You Ma’am

Read this before you resort to dubious cramming tactics.

CAREER JUNCTION

37 Q&A’s

The inside scoop on a whole lot of exciting professions:

38 Quantity Surveyor 39 Healthcare Worker 40 Internal Auditing 43 Voter Registrationist 44 Audit Quantitive Analyst 45 Psychophysiologist 46 Space Scientist 48 NGO Worker 49 Optical Dispenser 50 Chief Financial Officer 52 Crane Operator 56 Trainee Accountant 57 Navigation Cadet 59 Programme Coordinator 60 Beautician 61 Caterer post matric 2013

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competition

WIN A SONY PS3 OR ONE OF ELEVEN HAMPERS Stand a chance to win a Sony PS3 12GB console, or one of eleven Sony PlayStation hampers. Each hamper consists of a PlayStation cap, keyring, lanyard, t-shirt and Sackboy figurine.

©2012 Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. All rights reserved.

Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

P H OTO :

S U P P L I E D ;

P E T E R

R U D D E N

HOW TO ENTER SMS the name of the province you live in, followed by your age, followed by the name of the school where you got your copy of Post Matric to 34009.

EXAMPLE: ‘EASTERN CAPE 18 BISKHO HIGH’. If you did not get your copy from school, SMS the relationship of the person from whom you got your copy – for example, ‘EASTERN CAPE 18 BROTHER’ or ‘EASTERN CAPE 18 FRIEND’.

®

COMPETITION RULES: Cost per SMS is R2. Free SMS’s do not apply. Competition closes 31 August 2013. You may enter as many times as you like. By entering the competition you consent to receiving electronic information regarding Post Matric or other further education or career offerings. post matric 2013

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tech essentials HEADPHONES MONSTER INSPIRATION The Monster logo on a pair of Beats By Dr Dre headphones is the company that developed them. Now Dre and Monster have gone separate ways, but Monster’s range is none the poorer. This over-ear set features active noise-cancelling, for when you really need to blank out the rowdy parties next door. The ControlTalk cable switch controls volume/tracks.

R2999 www.monster.com

GOTTA HAVE Tech whizz Neil Gardiner sniffs out the latest and greatest gadgets guaranteed to put a smile on your dial...

MUSIC PLAYER IPOD NANO The legendary iPod changed the way the world listens to music and this is the seventh generation of the slim but powerful Nano. Nothing new on the outside, really, but the interface is slicker than ever before. There’s an FM radio and a video player, and at last, a decent-sounding set of earphones.

R1800 www.digicape.co.za

SPEAKER NIXON BLASTER WIRELESS Even though there are tons of personal speakers around, you can drastically cut your shopping list to one with the Blaster – yet another sick product from Nixon.

Weatherproof – tick. Wireless (Bluetooth) – tick. 15-hour battery life – tick. Charges up your phone – tick. Pumps – tick. Expected July.

Price TBA www.nixonnow.com

SMARTPHONE SONY XPERIA GO There’s nothing spectacular about the spec on this midrange smartphone – dual-core chip, 3.5” display and XMP sensor with LED flash. That is till you fall in the pool, or dip it in a draft of beer. It’s certified water-resistant at 1.5m for 30 minutes and pretty tough too. A bit clumsy? This is your phone.

Price dependent on contract www.sony.co.za

P H OTO S : S U P P L I E D

FITNESS WATCH TOM TOM NIKE PLUS You know what they say. “Leave school and put on 5kg.” Running is the purest form of exercise and a short burn four times a week will keep you in good nick. To relieve the boredom, keep track of your run times and distances with this watch and join Nike’s huge online community to compare or compete en route. Loving the ‘slap for light’ feature. R1900, www.nike.co.za

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Randall Abrahams insists that success should be measured in results, not in tabloid headlines – and advises ‘just getting on with it’ when faced with a daunting challenge.

RELUC Y T I R B E L E C THE

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W O R D S :

C H R I S T I N A

P H OTO S :

J O

S P I E S .

TANT

K E N N E R DY;

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The Energy and Water sector is waiting for you!

Have you completed your matric? Do you have grade 9? Are you unemployed?

Are you employed and looking to change your career path? Well, if you’ve answered yes to any of these questions, then you may want to explore a career in the energy and water sector.

The Energy and Water Seta (EWSETA) is committed to guiding you into finding the perfect career fit if you are interested in pursuing an engineering related qualification. There are also career opportunities for aspirant Community Development Workers, Water Treatment Plant Operators, Water Process Controllers and Biochemists.

And all you need to qualify is Maths, Science and English. Study opportunities are available through EWSETA’s accredited training providers for learnerships and trade qualifications. You can also study through a University, University of Technology, or Further Education and Training College.

The energy and water sector provides a boost of energy for skills development, and opportunities are endless!

Find out more about the many career opportunities provided by EWSETA by reading our EWSETA Career Guide available at www. eseta.org.za/CareerGuide.htm

unn side

Tel: 011 274 4700 fice ar ouse nd rd oors rincess o a es errace ar town ohannesburg outh rica

info@eseta.org.za www.eseta.org.za

inspirational people

OT H E R

P H OTO S :

G A L LO

I M A G E S / R A P P O R T/ C H R I S T I A A N

KOT Z E ;

B E E L D / D E N Z I L

M A R E G E L E

D

o you have to be a ‘Mr Nasty’ to clamber up the corporate ladder? Certainly not, according to music industry executive and Idols judge Randall Abrahams – but it helps to have a clear vision of what you need to accomplish and then zero in on that goal with single-minded determination.

In the case of M-Net and Mzansi Magic’s reality talent-search programme Idols, that goal is simply to find a commercially viable pop artist from the thousands of starry-eyed wannabes who audition every year.

If you’re the big boss of the South African Music Awards, the goal is to ensure a professional, entertaining and incident-free event that effectively showcases local music.

And as managing director of Universal Music South Africa, the goal is to shepherd the record company towards profitability and sustainability in a shape-shifting music industry.

It’s crucial to keep your eye on the ball and persistently dribble towards the goalposts, Abrahams believes. As he points out: ‘No one remembers the runner-up team in the World Cup.’ Most South Africans know Abrahams as a nononsense entertainment industry guru with an encyclopaedic knowledge of music and an uncanny ability to sort the promising wheat from the no-hoper chaff.

In fact, over the years his often uncompromising style has ruffled the feathers of more than a few quivering Idols hopefuls who truly believed they had what it takes to be the country’s next music superstar – but whose hideous caterwauling should really have been confined to the shower, if anywhere at all.

One only has to recall his pained expressions and winces upon hearing yet another excruciating mangling of Roberta Flack’s Killing Me Softly to realise that Abrahams is not on the programme to massage fragile egos and give entrants false hope – show business is a business, after all.

Chatting to him at his office at Universal Music in Sandton is not an easy exercise. Abrahams is a busy man, juggling various electronic gadgets and apologising for having to interrupt the interview to take an important phone call all the way from

Tokyo. One gets the impression there are a zillion things whizzing through his mind simultaneously, but that he actually thrives on keeping several balls suspended in the air at the same time.

This is the stone-cold reality behind every successful individual: you have to work hard.

There’s no getting around it. Success – whether you define it using the currency of personal From bottom left: SA Idols judges Abrahams and Dave Thompson with American and British Pop Idol judge Simon Cowell in 2002; Randall with Gareth Cliff and Mara Louw in 2009.

IF WE FIND OUR OWN GANGNAM STYLE, WE WON’T HAVE TO WORRY achievements or financial affluence – is very seldom a matter of sheer dumb luck.

I

n Abrahams’ case, it’s been a long journey to get where he is today, and an eventful one at that. Interestingly, he studied neither music nor business at varsity – which just goes to show that you needn’t be boxed in or held back by your chosen study direction, which can serve as a launching pad to other, more fulfilling prospects.

The career options were pretty limited for a child growing up in Lansdowne on the Cape Flats in the turbulent 1980s. For this self-confessed ‘music geek’ who was hooked on listening to radio chart shows, there were only dreams of post matric 2013

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inspirational people

being a pop star a la Elvis Presley, his hero.

‘I was very involved in politics at the time, and went to study political science in order to study something,’ he relates. ‘Things have markedly changed today, but when I was young there were so few things you could do.’

While enrolled at the University of Cape Town, the young student found himself spending more time at the campus radio station than in class.

Music, that alluring mistress, was beckoning him with her irresistible siren call, but it was only when his friend Mark Gillman clinched a job a popular station Good Hope FM that it dawned on Abrahams that his obsession could actually turn into a viable career.

His first job was behind the scenes at GHFM, diligently learning the ropes in all disciplines including the programming of music, leading to his rapid elevation to station manager by the time he hit his mid-20s.

But having such a lofty position of responsibility thrust on him at a young age didn’t daunt him in the least: ‘It was a case of “just do it” … you don’t sit around too long contemplating it,’ he says matter-of-factly. He was thrown into deep water and had to learn how to swim – fast. A method that’s often the best way of learning.

Since that early career breakthrough, Abrahams has gone on to hold several influential positions in the music and marketing industries, including helping propel youth radio station YFM to success after it launched in the late 1990s.

Then, as head of commercial radio at the SABC, he served as a ‘change agent’ at a number of major radio stations – rolling up his sleeves and overhauling them, a job that probably didn’t earn him many Mr Popularity awards, given people’s innate resistance to wholesale change. But the proof of the pudding was most definitely in the eating: improved financial results and awardwinning marketing campaigns.

He brought this transformational approach to the South African Music Awards last year as CEO, reviving the brand’s image after it had become somewhat tarnished in preceding years. He believes the awards are now back on course as a powerful showcase and marketing tool for South African music, with a whopping R290 million worth of public relations value generated in the year 2012 alone.

After taking up the job heading up Universal’s sub-Saharan operations, he retreated into the more behind-the-scenes role of chairing the

supervisory committee of the SAMAs, but remains committed to helping the country’s flagship music awards event flourish. He has also served on the board of the Advertising Standards Authority and chaired the National Broadcasting Association of South Africa.

Abrahams is keen to dispel any illusion that his job is a ritzy, glitzy one. ‘People think [being in the music business] is overwhelmingly glamorous.

Not to take the shine off it – it’s not the worst job in the world – but it’s results-based, just like any other job. You do deals, you have records that are and are not successful. It’s a great business, but it’s about getting results – and the higher up the chain you are, the more results-based it is.’

A

t the moment, the global music industry is faced with multiple upheavals and challenges, but the South African market is not an exact replica of its international counterparts and has its own quirks and peculiarities. For example, even though iTunes and other digital music download platforms are available here, the market for physical CDs is still quite robust.

If only the music business were simply about churning out hit records! It’s sadly not as straightforward as that, Abrahams says. ‘It’s about careful assessment and ongoing management of

Career Tips from ‘Mr Nasty’ ★ AS MUCH AS YOU NEED AN ACADEMIC QUALIFICATION, you also need a degree of will to get where you want to go. ★ KNOW YOUR STRENGTHS and weaknesses, which will guide you in how to assess and act in certain situations. ★ YOU WILL BE JUDGED on your results, so it’s important to have a vision and outcomes in your head. ★ KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE GOAL and

keep pushing until you are successful. ★ BE REALISTIC. I may have had the desire to be in a band, but I don’t think I’m good enough to have made it. ★ HAVE SELFDISCIPLINE and staying power in what you choose to do.

Bruce Springsteen’s first two albums flopped, and look where he is today. ★ STICK TO THE KNITTING, and you’ll soon learn what you need to.

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RANDALL REVEALS ALL ★ Randall Abrahams is an Elvis nut (‘I’m more than a fan’) and has visited Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee, on three occasions. One of the few decorations he allows himself in his spartan office at Universal is an Elvis wall clock. ★ He enjoys books, but seldom has time to read.

This year he has been reading biographies of Bruce Springsteen, James Brown and Russ Meyer.

A N D YO U I M A G E S / G A L LO

You need will and drive to succeed, he insists: ‘Talent is never enough.’ And, of course, it helps to have ‘ruthlessness in spades’, he says, at least partially tongue in cheek, before adding: ‘But I think you can be a bloody-minded softie.’

This, of course, brings us to his reputation of being a notoriously tough nut to crack. Abrahams feigns surprise, saying he thinks his approach has softened over the years.

‘They don’t still call me Mr Nasty, do they?’

He permits himself a glimmer of a smile as the interview draws to an end: ‘I’ve reinvented myself – I’m soft and fuzzy now!’

P H OTO S :

★ He seldom listens to music for fun – he needs to enter into a ‘serious engagement’ with any given album, finding out who played on it and delving with almost forensic zeal into its history and associated trivia.

H U I S G E N O OT/ M E D I A 2 4

★ He absolutely loves biscuits.

OT H E R

change… but if we find our own Gangnam Style, we won’t have to worry!’

As for Idols, it’s also hard work, he says: you have to hone your judging ability and instincts, be entertaining for a television audience and strive to be honest and fair. At the end of the day, it’s also just a job – albeit a high-profile one.

That’s Abrahams the reluctant celebrity talking.

He’s clearly not in it for the fame, the parties and the air kissing: he takes his multiple roles in the South African entertainment arena very seriously.

He approaches what he does from a business point of view, not for vanity or other egotistical reasons. For him, fame and success are not joined at the hip.

As his idol, Elvis, said in 1972: ‘The image is one thing and the human being is another… it’s very hard to live up to an image.’

Famously guarded about his private life, he somehow manages to keep personal details close to his chest – a rare accomplishment in today’s celebrity-obsessed society. But ask him about music and his face lights up. That’s his comfort zone, his haven.

It’s one thing to have dreams, but Abrahams believes it’s sensible to complement them with a healthy dose of realism; not everyone can be the next Lady Gaga or Usher, but you can hit dizzying heights in other areas if you correctly identify your strengths and talents.

He, for example, loves music and has a good business brain, and has combined his passion with his aptitude to great effect.

For centuries, across continents, engineering team members are making a difference to the lives of people, the environment and the economy.

Early ingeniators, conceptualisers of ingenious (clever) devices developed over the past 2500 years into the engineering team we know today: • • • • • • • •

Engineering Researchers Engineers Engineering Technologists Certificated Engineers Engineering Technicians Engineering Draftsmen Supervisors Inspectors and Artisans

Each of these team members has a specific role to fulfill in shaping the environment and improving the lives of people. All engineering professionals: 1. Examine problems 2. Produce solutions to problems 3 . Apply scientific, mathematical and engineering knowledge 4. Design 5. Investigate 6. Assess and lessen the impact of engineering solutions to the environment 7 Behave ethically 8. Manage engineering activities While these activities support economic growth, each has associated risks to the health and safety of people or the environment.

Because of these risks, any person who is doing engineering work has to be registred with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) to ensure that they perform their work completently and responsibly. Visit www.ecsa.co.za for more information.

Although all engineering professionals have the same competencies such as solving problems, their roles are set apart by the level of fundamental and specialist knowledge as well as the practice. Each of the team members therefore has a specific purpose-designed qualification that best develop their roles and responsibilities. Further to the qualification engineering team members also need to gain workplace experience of usually a minimum of three years before they can be registered and be accountable for their engineering work.

Another way in which the team members differ is the area (discipline) in which they can apply their engineering competencites: • Aeronautical • Agricultural • Civil • Chemical • Electrical / Electronical • Industrial • Mechanical • Mining / Metallurgy or combinations / specialisations of the above.

Engineering professionals throughout their career can potentially work as team members in a variety of multi-discipline projects and economic sectors.

This engineering team is inviting YOU to study engineering, to make our future happen!

Visit: www.engenius.org.za for more information on: • Engineering projects in SA • Engineering role models • Fun engineering activities to try • How to invite an engineering student to your community • Engineering your future

Faculty of Engineering & Information Technology

Be a “CUT above the rest” and ensure your furture and that of your loved ones by pursuing your studies at the entral University of Technology, ree tate in one of the following dynamic fields of study

• uilding • Civil Engineering • Computer Systems Engineering • Construction Management

• Electrical Engineering ( ight or Heavy Current) • Information Technology • Mechanical Engineering • uantity Surveying

Please apply early as only a limited number of students can be accommodated for.

losing date for pplications ugust For further enquiries please feel free to contact Mrs Mpho Meo

Tel ( 5 ) 5 3 ax ( 5 ) 5 3 54 -mail mmbeo@cut.ac.za www.cut.ac.za

T E X T:

C H R I S T I N A

K E N N E DY;

P H OTO : M E D I A C L U B .C O M / H A N N E L I E

C O E T Z E E

explore your options

Down in the dumps because you couldn’t get into university?

The good news is that a degree is not the be-all and end-all to ace it in life.

how to get ahead without

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Did

you know that Microsoft tycoon Bill Gates, Apple legend Steve Jobs and Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg all dropped out of university? While not everyone has the Midas touch and entrepreneurial spirit of these three modern business icons, it shows that you don’t necessarily need a degree to be successful.

There are a few harsh realities facing South African matriculants, the first of which is that there are many more school-leavers with university exemption than there are places at universities.

This has been borne out by the mad rush for places at some institutions after matric results are released – sometimes with tragic consequences.

Recently, the Human Sciences Research Council estimated that only 15% of South African university students who start a degree end up finishing it. Most quit their studies in their first year – they either buckle under the workload or pressure or discover they’ve chosen the wrong course.

Or, of course, they simply can’t afford to continue studying.

The cost of university tuition is mounting, and is way beyond the reach of many young South Africans and their families. Plus, varsity is not for everyone – some bright youngsters may not be academically inclined, but have strong aptitudes in other areas.

This means that tens of thousands of matriculants will have to look at alternatives should they wish to study further. Don’t believe the propaganda – university is not necessarily the Holy Grail of higher learning. If you don’t have a degree, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re going to end up as another unemployment statistic.

Extremely valuable skills can be learned at private and FET colleges, or through apprenticeships and on-the-job

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workplace training.

Consider this: many university graduates have degrees that aren’t in high demand in the workplace.

They will probably find work, but they aren’t addressing South Africa’s critical skills shortage in certain sectors. In order for the country to accelerate its economic growth and create wealth and jobs, it needs more artisans, as well as certain categories of technical and professional workers.

So, if you haven’t cracked a nod at university, don’t despair.

Acquiring skills through other means shouldn’t be sneezed at – and, in fact, you may end up earning more money and enjoying more job security than your counterparts with their fancy degree scrolls! Here are some career-focused alternatives to university worth considering:

PRIVATE COLLEGES

In academic terms, private colleges are positioned between high school and university level, and the entrance requirements are not as strict as they are for university programmes.

There are hundreds of registered private colleges (including private FET colleges) in South Africa – but not all are above board.

Don’t be taken for a ride by dodgy operators, or you may end up saddled with a worthless diploma or certificate.

When applying at a college, make sure it is accredited

by Umalusi on behalf of the Department of Higher Education and Training. This means that the college’s courses comply with industry standards.

Also, be sure to check the NQF (National Qualifications Framework) level of your prospective qualification against the requirements of the marketplace. An NQF-registered grading means it is a nationally

recognised qualification.

Some of the better-known private colleges, such as Boston, Damelin, Intec, City Varsity and Midrand Campus, have been going for a long time and have a solid track record of producing good, workplace-ready graduates.

Independent colleges may be dedicated to, for example, nursing, fitness, business or media studies, while others offer broader and more general fields of study. What could be off-putting is that some charge rather steep fees – but this is because they do not receive government subsidies.

FET COLLEGES/ VOCATIONAL TRAINING

Further Education and Training (FET) colleges equip students with a particular skill through jobspecific or occupational training.

Students who qualify will obtain a certificate in a particular field that makes them highly employable.

Such colleges are, however, often seen as a distasteful “last resort” of many school-leavers. In many cases this reputation is deserved, but just as often it’s unwarranted.

It all depends on the college.

Only private FET colleges have to apply to be officially accredited

by Umalusi; public colleges are automatically accredited.

Vocational and occupational training bears an unfortunate stigma, which must be dispelled if the workplace’s needs are to be met. In fact, Dr Blaze Nzimande, Minister of Higher Education and Training, declared 2013 “the year of the artisan” – so critical is the skills shortage in this sector of the country’s economy.

There are a number of government-subsidised FET colleges in South Africa, often referred to as technical colleges.

Many are public colleges, but there are also scores of private

explore your options institutions offering specialised education and skills geared towards a particular career.

Some of these colleges require only a Grade 9 or Grade 10 certificate, making them accessible to the average would-be student. They also offer vocational instruction to high school-age children who are able to obtain the technical equivalent of a Matric.

Some FET students may qualify for admission to a university of technology to continue their studies, making this a valuable bridge for those who still dream of going to varsity.

College Checklist

P H OTO :

M E D I A C L U B .C O M / S A S O L

Do your homework when selecting a college. MSC Business College has some tips for prospective students: Is it accredited? Can it produce a legitimate registration number?

Does it offer diplomas and/ or certificates, and at what NQF level?

What are the cost implications, and are there flexible payment options?

Are there any hidden costs, such as study materials and registration fees?

Does the college offer extracurricular activities to enhance your student life?

What study resources – such as libraries, computers and internet – are available?

Does it have a good reputation in the job market?

Check out www.colleges. co.za for a list of accredited and recommended colleges.

Also try the South African Qualifications Authority website for info and careers advice – www.saqa.org.za

INTERNSHIPS AND ON-THE-JOB TRAINING

The value of education is immense, but in many cases there’s no substitute for good, old-fashioned on-the-job training.

Such work gives you the practical street smarts to accompany any academic head smarts you may have accumulated.

Several college and university courses require you to have workplace experience before you can qualify. This means that undergraduate students are placed in an employment situation for a defined period – often working for free, or for a small stipend.

Interning is a win-win solution: the company gets the benefit of your labour and fresh ideas, and you gain valuable on-the-job experience and references to beef up your CV. Who knows – they may just ask you to stay at the end of it.

Even if you aren’t studying, it’s worth approaching a business and asking if they have any cheap “grunt” work for you – be it running errands or making coffee.

You’ll find that most companies

By undertaking an apprenticeship or internship you can gain valuable skills and exposure in your chosen field of work, maybe even securing a job at the end. will appreciate such initiative. Or consider volunteering at a local charity or small enterprise. At least you’ll gain experience – far better than moping around at home.

APPRENTICESHIPS AND LEARNERSHIPS Some companies offer learnerships, providing the opportunity to work while studying and training towards a qualification. Combining theoretical and practical components, these occupational learnerships are aimed at addressing the specific needs of the labour market.

Apprenticeships fall into this category. According to the Careers Portal website (www.thecareersportal.co.za), a trade apprenticeship combines workplace and formal learning, and is based on an agreement between the individual who wants to learn the skill and the employer who needs a skilled worker – another win-win situation.

Because of South Africa’s shortage of skilled tradespeople, “appies” are in hot demand and can ultimately command high salaries. So don’t knock it till you’ve tried it!

An apprenticeship can last between two and four years. Most of it involves the apprentice learning practical skills on-site under the supervision of a qualified tradesman. The remainder entails learning the theoretical and technical aspects of the chosen trade.

There are several pluses to this option: you earn a salary while learning, you are taught valuable skills in a practical environment, and you are virtually assured of a job at the end of it. post matric 2013

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get back on track

Desperately seeking a degree

Didn’t quite cut the grade in matric? Don’t despair. Your qualification catch-up questions answered.

Q

I haven’t been able to get into the degree course I have my heart set on.

Is it possible to improve my marks?

A Yes, it is possible. First prize is to go back to the high school where you wrote your matric and re-register to take those subjects, or – as soon as possible after receiving your results – apply to your district or regional education department office to write a supplementary exam. For the latter, you’ll have to provide documentary evidence that you qualified to be admitted to a higher education institution, but were one requirement short of fulfilling its standards.

Another alternative is to redo certain subjects through an institution such as a college. There, you would need to enrol for an NQF Level 4 qualification, which is the academic equivalent of Grade 12.

Q

Q

How do I know if the college I want to rewrite subjects through is legit?

A It’s absolutely critical to find out whether the Further Education and Training College is registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training and the South African Qualifications Authority.

Who can I contact to find out about options for rewriting some or all of my matric subjects?

A Contact your school, the Matriculation Board, Umalusi (www.umalusi.org.za) or the Department of Higher Education and Training (www.dhet.gov.za) for a list of accredited colleges.

Q

What if I chose the incorrect subjects in Grade 10 for entry to a particular degree course, and want to choose new subjects post-matric? Such as ditching Maths Literacy and doing Mathematics?

A There will probably be certain conditions and criteria attached, but it is possible. You may be required to complete Grades 10, 11 and 12 in that particular subject.

Q

Do I have to go through the hassle of wasting an entire year redoing subjects in order to get better marks, obtain university entrance or upgrade my pass level?

A Not necessarily. You may be able to complete a bridging course that will allow you easier entrance into your degree of choice. Find out from the institution you applied to whether they offer such courses, and if you are eligible.

Q

Can I register to redo certain matric subjects part-time?

A Yes, many colleges offer this possibility. You can also complete them via a correspondence course or through distance learning.

Q

Q

What if my matric marks weren’t good enough for me to study at the time, but I’ve since gone and obtained work experience in my chosen field? If I want to attend university now, do I still need to go back to school and study in order to bump up my marks?

A The good news is that you can apply to skip that step under the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) programme.

You can approach Higher Education South Africa www.hesa.org. za or a university with a copy of your Matric certificate, making sure to include any experience and training you have undergone that may be relevant.

They will evaluate your application, see if you have met the necessary learning outcomes and may provide you with a certificate that recognises your prior learning.

Can I wait a few years after matric and then go and study, even with my low marks?

A Yes. If you are 23 and older, you would be regarded as a “mature student” and many academic institutions will accept you on a course even if your original matric marks prevented you from studying at the time. post matric 2013

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funding fundi

Funding made easy Don’t let empty pockets pull the plug on your career dreams – savvy students can score financial aid in a number of ways.

I L L U S T R AT I O N S : DÁNH CHO

Eric

Maluta Nnditshedzeni hails from a remote rural village in Limpopo.

As the fifth of six children, he despaired of ever having the money to fulfil his dream of studying science at university – until he obtained a student loan.

That was back in 1998, and today Eric not only has a BSc in Physics and Mathematics and an Honours degree, but also went on to attain his masters in renewable energy and, two years ago, his doctorate through the University of Bath in England on a much sought-after Ford Foundation fellowship.

All of this was made possible by an initial student loan from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) – and because Eric excelled academically, he only had to pay back 60% of the amount.

The message? Never give up on your dreams. You may be

broke, but as long as you persist and put in the hard yards, you can strike gold.

Many matriculants (not to mention their parents) hit a downer when they see what universities and private colleges are charging – up to R50 000 for first-year tuition fees alone.

Clearly, obtaining a tertiary education is not cheap, but in today’s tough job market, having a degree or diploma in hand could pay off handsomely.

That’s why high costs shouldn’t put you off signing up to study towards your dream career – especially when you have the marks, the will, the drive and the determination to succeed, and the only puzzle piece missing is the cash.

So, don’t lock yourself in your room with your empty piggy bank and resign yourself to living at your parents’ place forever – get out there and start

applying for any and every grant you can find!

It’s important to remember, though, that funding is often a two-way street between you and your benefactor, and is not to be undertaken lightly.

You need to be serious about your study path and completely committed to repaying your debt or fulfilling any conditions, academic or otherwise.

Pause and ask yourself whether your study course is a) suited to your abilities and personality, b) likely to result in a job and c) in demand in the marketplace. It’s not advisable to study for the sake of getting any qualification – and it could be a costly mistake.

With bursaries, remember that the early bird catches the golden worm. Apply for funding several months before you write your Matric exams. You ideally want to be at the front of the queue, not bringing up the rear.

Hop on the internet or go to your local library to research who is offering financial assistance to students. Start phoning, e-mailing and writing letters – and don’t forget to follow up on your applications. post matric 2013

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1

REALITY CHECK

2

MONEY, MONEY, MONEY

3

BURSARY BAGGING

The national pass rate of SA’s 2012 matrics – affectionately known as the “born frees”, since most were born at the dawn of democracy in 1994 – was 73.9%. A total of 26.6% qualified to study at university, and 27.3% to study towards a diploma.

NB: A university pass does NOT guarantee you a place at a university.

The country’s 23 universities can only accommodate a fraction of those who are eligible for bachelor’s studies. Even though South Africa should have two new universities by 2014 – in Nelspruit and Kimberley – the demand for places will still outstrip the availability.

South Africa’s unemployment rate stood at about 24.9% at the end of 2012. The National Treasury estimates that an alarming 42% of citizens under 30 are unemployed, compared with fewer than 17% of adults over 30. So if you’re young, you have a far lower chance of getting a job.

Economist Mike Schussler, quoted by Business Day, said that if you don’t have a Matric, your chances of being unemployed are as high as 36%. Those with Matric have a 25% likelihood of not getting a job. Significantly, he estimated that only 7% of degree graduates are unemployed. And if you are an artisan with a trade, there’s only a 12% chance that you won’t find work.

According to Independent Online, first-year students at the Durban University of Technology could expect to pay tuition fees of between R19 000 and R30 000 in 2013 – and that’s before the extra Randelas needed for digs, grub, wheels, textbooks and socialising!

If you wanted to study at the University of the Witwatersrand, you would be paying between R20 000 (as a first-year education student) and R43 000 (for first-year medicine), with res accommodation ranging from R18 000 (sharing a room and without meals) to R37 000 (for a private room, with meals). So you could be looking at R80 000 a year!

Be wary of bogus fly-by-night colleges that exploit the poor and the desperate. Before you hand over any moola, check with the Department of Education that the institution is registered.

A bursary is a study grant that does not need to be repaid – unless you fail. There may be conditions attached too, so do your research.

A bursary is based more on financial need, while a scholarship is usually merit-based (artistic, academic or sporting ability).

It’s important to take the right subjects in Grade 10 that will propel you in your chosen career direction. Don’t just take the easiest subjects!

Find out well in advance what the minimum admission

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post matric 2013

requirements are for the course you want to follow. Then don’t just meet those standards, but exceed them. Even if you scrape together enough points to allow you entrance, popular courses are usually oversubscribed and you could be denied a place.

Similarly, ask companies and academic institutions what marks you need to qualify for a bursary.

Again, strive to surpass those.

Attend the open day(s) of universities and colleges.

Apply early! Submit your funding applications early in your matric year. The closing date can be as early as 12 months in advance.

4

WHERE TO APPLY?

TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS Apply for a bursary at the university or college where you intend to study. Visit, e-mail or phone their financial aid office well in advance to find out more.

Many of these bursaries are only open to South African citizens.

Once you are enrolled at university, you may also qualify for an academic merit award based on your results during your first year of study.

Some universities also offer partial bursaries for art, cultural, sporting or leadership achievements at school.

THE PRIVATE SECTOR Many companies – particularly those operating in the scarce and critical skills sectors, such as mining and engineering – award contract bursaries, usually with conditions such as: 1) You have to pass your subjects – otherwise you must pay for the courses you fail; 2) You will be contractually bound to work at the company for a specified number of years after completing your studies; and, 3) You will be required to study in a field specified by the company (e.g. BCom Accounting, BSc Engineering).

Companies that award bursaries include: Spoornet, Transnet, Sasol, Absa, Anglo American, Gold Fields, Anglo Platinum, Eskom, Sasol, Iscor, De Beers, Edgars, SA Breweries, Harmony, Mintek, AECI, Engen, Group 5, Murray & Roberts, PPC, the SA Institute of Race Relations, the SA Weather Service, Vodacom and Old Mutual.

Eduloan is a private company that provides loans to worthy students whose parents are permanently employed. Visit www. eduloan.co.za for more information on loans available.

funding fundi

TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS THE PRIVATE SECTOR GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS SETAS AND THE NATIONAL SKILLS FUND BANK LOANS

GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS Approach your local municipality, or the provincial or national government department relevant to your studies – they often have a number of bursaries up for grabs.

THE NATIONAL STUDENT FINANCIAL AID SCHEME (NSFAS) If you can’t afford to pay for your studies, try the Department of Higher Education’s National Student Financial Aid Scheme.

NSFAS awards study loans and bursaries to financially needy South African undergraduate students who also show promise.

In its 21 years of existence, NSFAS has helped almost a million students and granted over R25 billion in loans.

The scheme offers study loans at a low interest rate (currently 5.2%), without the need for surety, and you only have to begin your repayments once you are earning an annual salary of R30 000. You do, however, need to prove that your household income is less than R122 000 a year.

Loans are awarded for studies at public universities or further education and training (FET)

colleges, but not private colleges.

If you study hard and pass all your courses, you could have up to 40% of your NSFAS loan converted into a bursary. But if you drop out, you’ll have to repay the entire bang-shoot.

NSFAS also administers bursary funds for aspiring teachers, social workers and those studying in scarce-skills disciplines, and FET college bursaries.

Contact NSFAS at 0860 NSFAS (067327) or 021 763 3232, SMS 32261 or write to Private Bag X1, Plumstead 7801, South Africa.

You can also e-mail info@nsfas.org. za or visit www.nsfas.org.za.

STUDY WHILE YOU WORK If you’re working, you may be able to get your employer to pay for your studies. Larger employers have to pay a skills development levy, which goes to Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) and the Skills Development Fund.

These monies are available to finance the training of a company’s own employees. Employers can claim a SARS refund if they train their workers. So, if you want to study through your company – as

Once you know what you want, set your sights high. Apply and keep on applying until you find the funder that’s right for you.

Remember the saying: where there’s a will, there’s always a way.

long as it is related to your job – you could get your tuition paid for.

BANK LOANS The major banks all offer student loans, to be repaid over a fixed term with interest. You will need someone to sign surety for you.

South African citizens and nonSouth Africans with valid study permits can apply for these study loans, which can be taken out for studies at a university, FET college or SA Qualifications Authorityaccredited private institution.

CONTACT THE BIG FOUR Standard Bank 0860 123 000, www.standardbank.co.za First National Bank 0860 100 762, www.fnb.co.za ABSA 0860 100 372, www.absa.co.za Nedbank 0860 555 111, www.nedbank.co.za

HANDY ONLINE RESOURCES

www.thecareersportal.co.za www.gal.co.za sa.gostudy.info or www.gostudy.mobi www.studentbrands.co.za post matric 2013

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study guide

Make or

Break

Time

The countdown has begun and the clock is ticking as the ‘biggie’ looms on the horizon. Once you’ve got Matric under your belt, you can saddle up and ride off into your very own sunset.

Good

preparation and sound study techniques are vital when it comes to optimum performance during those allimportant exams. Studying is a technical skill and, like any skill, the more you practice the better you become. Being motivated is an important aspect of studying, and this means really knowing what you want out of life – and

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post matric 2013

what marks you need to get it.

Christine Battersby of Yearn 2 Learn – a Cape Town based company that runs study workshops – suggests avoiding relying too heavily on reading and reading over the work, and setting realistic goals for yourself such as an improvement of 10% on your next exam. Here are some more tips from the experts…

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T E X T:

TA R A

L E R N E R ;

P H OTO :

S H U T T E R S TO C K /

D I E G O

C E R V O

study guide SIX TOP STUDY TIPS SITTING PRETTY Have a dedicated study space that is clean, organised and well lit. This can be a desk in your room, at the local library or even a space at a relative’s house. Use a chair that supports your back and avoid lying on your bed. It’s important not to have distractions, such as TV or background music, except perhaps classical baroque music (Bach, Vivaldi and Handel), which is said to help by stimulating the parts of the brain dealing with memory.

FUEL 2 BRAIN Diet plays an important role in certain brain functions such as concentration and memory. ‘Green leafy vegetables, oily fish, berries, oats, nuts and seeds, and green tea are recognised as “brain foods” that boost functioning in these areas,’ says dietician Kelly Lynch.

‘It’s also important to avoid sugar, caffeine and junk food.’

Consuming small, frequent meals will keep your energy levels up, and drinking plenty of water will prevent you from feeling sluggish.

ENOUGH SLEEP 3 GET Ensuring adequate sleep will help ensure that your brain is functioning optimally. ‘Staying up all night to cram leads to anxiety and consequently not writing at your best. The thinking part of your brain shuts down with too much stress and fatigue,’ says Judi Kurgan, a literacy and educational consultant. Getting regular exercise ensures that your body and brain are getting plenty of oxygen.

PREPARED 4 BE Good studying starts before and in the classroom. ‘Come to

1

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post matric 2013

class prepared,’ says Judi. ‘Arrive knowing what you don’t know, so you can ask relevant questions.

Your number one job is to be actively present at school. This means being focused, asking questions and taking effective notes in class.’

ALL IN THE TIMING 5 With teachers piling on homework and scheduling tests, it can be difficult to stay on top of things. Having a daily and weekly ‘to do’ list and noting important events on a calendar will help you to set a realistic

timetable. It’s also valuable to take advantage of the time of day when you work the most effectively. Keep your brain alert by studying in short intervals and taking breaks. We tend to remember more at the beginning and end of a study session, so it’s better to study for about 30 minutes, then take a 5 minute break and start again, rather than study for one hour straight.

TAKE NOTE 6 Good note taking is a skill.

Some universities actually offer courses on how to take notes.

One of the methods taught is Cornell Notes (see info bubble above for tips on how to make them). It is still a good idea to make notes in your own words, even if your teacher has given you handout notes already.

P H OTO :

Draw a vertical line down a page (larger side to left). Write the basic info being relayed (not every word), then add a keyword on the right. To revise, cover the left so that only the keywords are showing.

Now see how much you can recall.

S H U T T E R S TO C K / M A X I K

MAKING CORNELL NOTES…

QUESTION

IMPROVE YOUR UNDERSTANDING

tress, th ’t s

la

SQ3R r formu the

REV IEW

CONCEPT MAPPING

REVIEW, REVIEW, REVIEW

Concept mapping (also referred to as mind mapping or spider diagrams) is a visual way of presenting information that facilitates a deeper understanding.

The nonlinear fashion of concept mapping encourages the righthand side of your brain to be more involved in the learning process, especially if you use colour and shapes. When the whole brain is working on something you will achieve a greater understanding, and be able to tap into more creative ways of looking at things because it will be easier to see how ideas interrelate.

Concept maps also help you to organise your thoughts, see the important issues, communicate complex information, and are easy to recall, which makes them perfect for note-taking and reviewing purposes.

Unless you were blessed with a photographic memory, when you learn something new you’ll probably only remember that concept or information for a day or so before the memory starts to fade away. To take something from your short-term memory and actively commit it to your longterm memory takes work.

Regular reviewing means that you don’t have to spend time relearning information or cramming the night before exams. Your first review should happen as soon as possible on the day of learning, the next review a day later, then one week later, then one month later and then every few months. Avoid simply re-reading your material. To really test yourself, start by writing out your notes or concept map from memory, then see if you’ve left anything out. Another great

Without looking at the book, try to remember the key concepts.

L CAL RE

Look through the book and take note of what you didn’t remember.

Carefully read the contents, make notes, take time to understand the concepts.

READ

Pick out the key components.

Do n

SUR VEY

Ask yourself: How does this relate to what I’ve been studying?

sn’t ano is i

‘The better you understand something, the easier you will be able to learn it and recall it,’ advises Judi. ‘By understanding and knowing how to apply the knowledge, you’ll know how to answer more abstract questions.’

ACTIVE READING makes sure that you make the most of your reading time.

This involves engaging in the text, mainly by asking questions, and using a review component to make sure the info sticks in your brain. There are many methods to choose from, such as SQ3R and RWCSR (Read, Write, Cover, Say, Review). See the diagram graphic to the right for how to use the SQ3R technique.

way of reviewing is as part of a study group. Discussing concepts with friends can provide you with new ways of looking at things, and being able to teach a concept to someone is evidence that you truly understand it yourself.

One of the best ways to prepare for exams is to write exams from previous years. Old exams are readily available online. Don’t just look over them and say ‘yeah, I know that’. Write them from memory within a time limit, and then ask your teacher to mark your work. Take note of how much each section is worth and how much time you should allocate to it on exam day.

USEFUL WEBSITES wced.pgwc.gov.za www.unisa.ac.za

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study guide

DEALING WITH EXAM NERVES

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post matric 2013

‘Remember that your best IS good enough,’ says Bruce.

‘There is a huge amount of stress involved, but good exam results shouldn’t come at the expense of overall health and well-being.’

Don’t forget to talk to your school counsellor for more ideas on how to tackle anxiety issues.

20% In the US, an estimated 5% to 20% of adolescents suffer from an anxiety disorder, with test anxiety high up on the list.

L A B O R ATO R Y

some deep breathing) before you begin writing. ★ Carefully read through all the questions first. ★ To get your brain thinking, start off with a few easier questions and use concept mapping to assist you.

P H OTO : P H OTO

Many people suffer from exam anxiety, but there are steps you can take to try and counter a bad case of the nerves.

‘Positive thinking is a good way to deal with anxiety,’ suggests high school councellor Tania Bruce.

You may find yourself having self-defeating thoughts like, ‘I’m not good enough’ or ‘I’m going to fail’. Replace these with realistic, believable phrases like ‘I’m going to do the best I can’.

Here are some last minute tips to help beat the nerves: ★ Arrive at your exam early and be prepared. ★ Take a moment to relax (do

career junction

waiting for that light bulb moment? scan our career ideas for inspiration

quantity surveying

CONSTRUCTIVE CONSULTING Michael Kleve

PROFESSIONAL QUANTITY SURVEYOR MIKE KLEVE QUANTITY SURVEYORS

I read an article about it whilst I was in matric. The skills required by a quantity surveyor appealed to me and I applied to study at both UCT and Technikon. I was fortunate to be accepted at UCT.

WHAT IS A PROFESSIONAL QUANTITY SURVEYOR?

Quantity surveyors act in liaison with architects, consulting engineers and contractors to safeguard the client’s interests.

They are independent experts who operate in a specialised area of the construction industry; the financial consultants of the industry whose training and experience qualify them to advise on cost and contractual arrangements, as well as providing property development advice.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU DO? I studied the five-year degree course in Quantity Surveying, BSc (Quantity Surveying), at the University Of Cape Town.

IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING?

Yes, I believe it is. Any candidate quantity surveyor should be prepared to spend at least three years gaining experience, and providing a logbook of that experience in order to register as a professional quantity surveyor.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB

Days normally involve meetings (either in the office or on site) and telephonic and written communications with professional persons including architects, engineers, building contractors and clients. Alternatively, the day would be spent preparing or checking calculations for estimates, working on tenders, monthly certificates and final accounts.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK? The opportunity to provide accuracy and detail whilst under

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE?

Starting my own sustainable registered quantity surveying practice has been the highlight and most rewarding part of being a quantity surveyor.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE?

To grow Mike Kleve Quantity Surveyors in order to provide a quantity surveying service not only locally and nationally, but perhaps also internationally.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT ON THIS CAREER PATH?

Be patient and be prepared to learn the basics from a registered professional quantity surveyor.

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS

Professional, pressured and analytical.

I have enjoyed the opportunity to work in other parts of the world

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R U D D E N

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?

P E T E R

You should be highly numerate and analytical, enjoy working with finances, pay attention to detail and possess good communication skills – both written and oral.

pressure, and to meet realistic deadlines for projects that have been properly planned and/ or designed and have a good chance of fruition. My training and experience as a quantity surveyor has given me the opportunity to work in other parts of the world including Namibia, United Kingdom and the Middle East.

P H OTO :

IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO THIS WORK?

healthcare

FOR THE GREATER GOOD Dr Duvai Mukuvisi PROJECT MANAGER

AIDS HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION (AHF)

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO WORK IN HEALTHCARE? I like helping sick people and helping to create a healthier society.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

I obtained a Bachelor of Medicine & Surgery in 2002, a Diploma in HIV Management in 2008 and an MBA from MANCOSA in 2011.

WHAT TYPE OF PERSONALITY IS BEST SUITED TO WORK IN THE HEALTHCARE FIELD?

Someone who loves working with people, especially people in poor health.

IN YOUR INDUSTRY, IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING?

I believe training is more important as it provides a platform for understanding the technical aspects of the job; experience develops better workmanship.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB

I arrive at my workplace in the morning, plan for the day with my subordinates, attend meetings, write reports and supervise subordinates.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK?

Working in my project I get to see my clients (people in poor health) improving and getting well. As we provide free services, I like the fact that anyone in Durban can access the facilities we offer.

WHICH ASPECTS ARE YOU LEAST KEEN ON?

Having meetings with bodies like the Department of Health can be challenging as they have the power to, say, change or cease what we are doing at anytime.

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE?

Between 2007 and 2008 I was a Country Manager for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation in Swaziland.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE?

I plan to start my own organisation or company so that I can fully express my training knowledge and experience it the way I want to.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN HEALTHCARE?

Firstly, they should be sure that they have talent and an interest in the field. Secondly, they should excel from the beginning and get a quality degree or diploma under their belt.

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS Motivating • Interesting • Teaching

I like the fact that anyone in Durban can access what we offer post matric 2013

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Shirley Machaba NATIONAL ENTERPRISE RISK AND INTERNAL AUDIT LEADER PwC

External audit is primarily a financial discipline with a statutory obligation. These auditors’ main

00 40 //

post matric 2013

WHAT DO INTERNAL AUDITORS DO?

The job starts with understanding

There is hardly anything to dislike, but I must admit that having to work with people who do not understand the role of internal audit can be a challenge.

WHAT ‘MAKES’ A GOOD INTERNAL AUDITOR?

Whilst the financial skills of accountants are useful to do

H E R E

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN INTERNAL AUDITOR AND AN EXTERNAL AUDITOR?

WHAT DO YOU LIKE LEAST ABOUT YOUR WORK?

A N Y

Once I was exposed to internal audit, I realised that I had discovered the coolest career.

This is the one job that exposes you to every single aspect of an organisation, and gives you the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life. The internal auditor plays a major role in the organisation’s wellbeing, making a significant difference as an assurance provider and trusted advisor to management. This is not just a position for career internal auditors, but is also an excellent training ground for those who want to move into executive positions.

function is to give assurance that the organisation’s financial position is what management has reported it is by looking at whether the financial statements are a true reflection of the organisation’s financial position, and ensuring that it is a going concern. Internal auditors on the other hand have a much broader scope. Although we also look at the organisation’s finance area, this is just a fraction of our function; internal auditors focus on every area in the organisation, from HR to supply chain management and procurement to IT. We also focus on strategy; risk management; fraud, ethics, compliance, sustainability, environmental and other risks; as well as governance and performance of the organisation’s core business.

Knowing that what I do can make a difference and directly contribute to the wellbeing of an organisation.

I love being in a position to provide advice to management on best practice as well as on critical changes within the profession, industries and sectors. This of course means that I need to keep myself up to date with changes as well as have the ability to spot trends in the environment and determine the potential impact on my organisation and industry.

Unlike many careers that tend to have a single focus, this is a multi-dimensional discipline. It is an exciting job with a lot of variety and no room for boredom.

I F

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO BE AN INTERNAL AUDITOR?

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST?

C R E D I T

ALL EYES AND EARS

the risks the organisation is facing and looking at whether there are adequate controls in place to mitigate those risks. We also look at whether the staff and management are adhering to the established controls. In this context we are assurance providers and our primary client is the Board to whom we report through the Audit Committee.

internal auditing WHAT TRAINING DO YOU ADVISE FOR A PERSON WANTING TO ENTER THE PROFESSION? Follow the Institute of Internal Auditors South Africa (IIA SA) career path. The IIA SA is the professional body that represents the interests of the internal auditing community and is the standard setter of the career path for internal auditors. The basic steps are firstly to obtain an academic qualification and become a member of the institute.

Once you have begun working, enrol in the IIA SA’s Professional Training Program (in other words, you have to serve articles) and then write the Certified Internal Auditor exam as the final test of competence. After you have qualified, you can maintain your designations and knowledge through the IIA SA’s continuing professional development program.

Many Internal Auditors also opt to write the IIA’s specialty exams, which have been designed to further enhance their skills in particular areas such as government or financial services auditing and risk management.

ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE STARTING OUT?

Do the groundwork to determine whether this is the right career choice for you. Once that decision is made, follow the career path as mapped out by the Institute of Internal Auditors.

Being a member of the institute allows you to make use of their technical guidance resources and networking opportunities, amongst other benefits. * For a more detailed review of the IIA SA career path, visit website: www.iiasa.org.za

C R E D I T

I F

A N Y

H E R E

their job effectively, internal auditors need to possess a high level of technical internal auditing skills and superior business acumen. They must be effective communicators, good project managers, analytically strong, and it helps if they are excellent negotiators. They need to be emotionally intelligent, have excellent leadership skills, have the ability to think strategically, network effectively, and deliver quality services and act as a business value enhancer. Internal auditors interact with various stakeholders with differing expectations, therefore good management skills are key. In addition, they must have an excellent grasp of organisational risk management concepts, unflinching integrity, be grounded in ethics and possess reserves of unwavering courage.

post matric 2009

00

politics

THE JOB THAT GETS THE VOTE WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

While I had no formal training when I started at the IEC in 1993, I have since attained a Bachelor degree in Political Science.

WHAT TYPE OF PERSONALITY IS REQUIRED?

You have to love working with people and be projectminded. Elections, particularly on a national and provincial level, are the biggest logistical operation undertaken by a country and they involve the effective management of many mini-projects.

Stephanie Loy

ART DIRECTOR/VISUAL COMMUNICATOR

IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS TRAINING?

Absolutely; during our project planning my colleagues and I will recall things that worked well for certain voters and not for others. For example, using social media to communicate with voters is more suited to younger voters, while mature voters prefer communication through more traditional media.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB

I divide my day according to my four key areas of responsibility which are voter registration, candidate nomination, party liaison and administrative tasks.

I also spend a lot of time in meetings and planning sessions. Sometimes I also get to do some research, which I love.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST?

The possibility of innovation, either in terms of our processes and approaches – or both, at every election.

TRAINING AND STUDY OPPORTUNITIES

International IDEA has a programme called Building Resources in Democracy, Governance and Elections, or BRIDGE. This professional development programme has a particular focus on electoral processes. It gives one the opportunity to meet colleagues from different electoral commissions around the world and learn more about their processes. As of 2012, one can also enrol for the Managing Democratic Elections in Africa course through the Centre for Electoral Democracy at the University of South Africa (the only formal course in elections management on the continent).

DOES YOUR WORK INVOLVE TRAVEL?

I love to travel and through my work at the IEC I

Roshnie Naidu

ASSISTANT MANAGER: VOTER REGISTRATION AND PARTY LIAISON ELECTORAL COMMISSION OF SOUTH AFRICA (IEC)

have been to various countries in Africa, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi and Zimbabwe, and even as far as Australia.

ANY ADVICE FOR NEWCOMERS?

You have to love working with people. After a while, being involved in elections gets into your blood. At the IEC we have our own ‘election speak’, which even our families don’t understand. Every election is different, so don’t approach it with the attitude that you’ve been there, done that and got the election T-shirt. I have a lot of election T-shirts, but each one is unique and tells an exciting story.

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS Innovative, challenging and fulfilling.

Being involved in elections gets into your blood post matric 2013

// 43

banking l

TAKING STOCK WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?

It was always my dream, and my talents lay in this area.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

I did a PhD in Applied Mathematics. My research focused mainly on financial modelling and optimisation and their application to banking and finance; this included issues related to Basel capital regulations and the subprime mortgage crisis.

Well, to prosper in this industry one needs to be a goal-driven, smart and savvy individual.

IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING? Yes, work experience gives you an insight into the kind of work you are likely to be doing. It gives you a clear indication of whether you are suited to it. Formal training teaches you how to do new things, upgrades your skills and knowledge, and maintains your level of competency.

HAS YOUR POST-GRADUATE DEGREE MADE ANY TANGIBLE CONTRIBUTION IN YOUR WORKING ENVIRONMENT? Yes, it has. It gave me extra freedom to tailor my career to suit my interests. Most importantly, it provided me with valuable knowledge of Basel regulations. The banks use the

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post matric 2013

AUDIT QUANTITATIVE ANALYST STANDARD BANK SOUTH AFRICA

Basel regulations as a benchmark against their own policies.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB

Working on projects/audits allocated for that specific week/ month and attending technical committee meetings and portfolio meetings in between, which can sometimes take up most of the working day.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? That I work on different projects every month.

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE?

Working for one of the four biggest banks in South Africa.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE? One of my goals is to open a research company.

ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN BANKING?

Learn and become an expert in the field. Always deliver to the best of your ability.

HOW WOULD YOU BEST DESCRIBE BANKSETA AS AN INSTITUTION ASSISTING INDIVIDUALS IN BROADER BANKING? ARE THEY FULFILLING THEIR MANDATE?

Definitely; as Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world”. BANKSETA is empowering young South Africans through full sponsorship of skills development initiatives to obtain the ‘most powerful tool’ that will help them follow their dreams, succeed in the workplace and improve the South African economy.

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS

citing • ha enging • Innovative

S P I E S

WHAT TYPE OF PERSONALITY IS BEST SUITED TO THIS TYPE OF WORK?

Dr Mmamontsho Charlotte Senosi

J O

Through BANKSETA.

P H OTO :

HOW DID YOU ACCESS FUNDING FOR YOUR POST- GRADUATE STUDIES?

psychophysiology

TRUTH SEEKER Leon Coetsee

FORENSIC PSYCHOPHYSIOLOGIST (POLYGRAPH EXAMINER) INTEGRA POLYGRAPH SOLUTIONS

WHAT DOES YOUR CAREER ENTAIL?

We offer a range of services to corporates and private individuals in situations where the veracity of information needs to be established. A polygraph instrument is used to assist us with our investigations.

We do pre-employment screenings, specific incident investigations and periodic screenings of staff to identify undesirable behaviour in the workforce.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?

I initially started out in the import/export industry and warehoused a lot of high value consumer goods.

Loss control was an important part of the job and polygraph-based investigations one of the tools used to identify possible causes for the losses taking place.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

I completed a Diploma in Forensic Psychophysiology at an American Polygraph Association approved training facility.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK?

WHICH ASPECTS ARE YOU LEAST KEEN ON?

EXPERIENCE VERSUS FORMAL TRAINING?

You only really learn how to be a good examiner through experience. I would recommend getting a background in Criminology and Psychology and getting some experience in an investigative field before embarking on this career.

I once conducted an investigation on behalf of family members of a victim of a fatal shooting. Information gathered during the investigation ultimately lead to the arrest and conviction of a dangerous housebreaking syndicate. I also investigated theft from a member of a famous rock band touring SA.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY

ADVICE FOR STARTING OUT IN YOUR CAREER?

P H OTO :

Every time you go to work you make decisions that can have a significant impact on the lives of others. You cannot allow emotions to cloud your judgment, or be apathetic to the individual’s circumstances. A person needs to be ethical, pragmatic and perceptive, and also be confident and articulate as a crucial part of the job involves interviewing people one-on-one. One needs to be able to gain a stranger’s trust.

R U D D E N

Helping people find answers and solving their problems. Sometimes you will gain valuable evidence that leads to convictions in serious criminal matters.

P E T E R

WHAT TYPE OF PERSONALITY IS SUITED TO THIS?

polygraph test is administered. Test data is analysed and scored and a finding is reached. Depending on the circumstances, the outcome is then potentially discussed with the examinee to gather additional information. At the end of the day, findings are discussed and often you will advise the client on what further action can be taken. Tests take between one and two hours and are mentally quite taxing, so we limit the number of tests we conduct in a day to four or five persons. In the evenings, reports are prepared.

Arrive at a client, discuss the matter under investigation and formulate the test questions to be asked. Individual interviews are then conducted and a

The services we provide are needed but not always wanted, so you often have to deal with people who are belligerent and openly hostile towards you. In some cases examinees will break down in tears and although you might be sympathetic to their situation, your obligation is towards finding out the truth.

YOUR CAREER HIGHLIGHTS TO DATE?

An old dog can still teach a few tricks; find an experienced professional examiner and do an apprenticeship with him before you go into the field. post matric 2013

// 45

science

THIS IS SPACE CALLING

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

After completing a B.Sc. Geology Degree at the University of the Western Cape, I started with an Internship Programme at SANSA’s Space Science directorate in Hermanus as a Science Advancement Intern. The internship lasted a year and I then went on to pursue a Remote Sensing Internship at SANSA’s Earth Observation directorate in Gauteng.

That internship also lasted for a year; and I am now a Customer Relations Trainee.

EXPERIENCE VERSUS FORMAL TRAINING?

As illustrated above, the formal training that I received at the university worked as a basis which enabled me to persue various fields. You can gain experience on the job but training is necessary to perform any job in the most efficient manner possible.

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WHAT SKILLS DO YOU NEED?

Working with various clients means that you have to learn how to listen, in order to provide them with the correct information. It requires people skills as you need to be able to deal with different personalities, while keeping your cool.

WHAT ASPECT DO YOU ENJOY MOST?

My favourite part is being able to advise clients on which satellite imagery is best suited for their individual projects.

In Earth observation, there are different sensors which produce images at different resolutions (both spatial and spectral). So, by knowing the properties and characteristics of the satellites, we can advise as to what will work best.

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS

Energetic, Patient and Caring.

JUNIOR SPACE WEATHER ASSISTANT SANSA, SPACE SCIENCE

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?

I chose the field of space weather because it’s a relatively new field, especially in SA, and it’s a fastgrowing profession with many exciting opportunities to work with space weather agencies around the world.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

I did a B.Sc. degree in Mathematical and Statistical Sciences at the University of Western Cape. I then did an internship with SANSA for one year. I am now a full time employee learning something new every day. A computer science or physics degree can also get you into this profession.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB?

The sun is the source of space weather which is the outer space equivalent of weather on Earth. Instead of wind, rain and snow, however, space has solar storms, the solar wind and solar flares. Space weather effects can interfere with our technological systems.

The SANSA Space Weather Centre provides early warnings and forecasts on space weather events. My job includes monitoring space weather which plays an important role in protecting satellite technology, communication systems and electrical power grids.

I do frequency prediction for our clients who use navigation and communication technology such as GPS and HF radio. Every morning I put together a space weather forecast for our website.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?

This field is fascinating and there is always something new to learn in the world of space science. I enjoy opportunities to travel overseas to attend conferences, workshops and to visit Space Weather Centres.

R E E D

SANSA, EARTH OBSERVATION

Teboho Nxele

G E O R G E

CUSTOMER RELATIONS TRAINEE

P H OTO :

Nomnikelo Bongoza

Mutshutshu Nephiphidi

SATELLITE GROUND SEGMENT TECHNICIAN SANSA, SPACE OPERATIONS

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

Upon receiving a BTech in Electrical Engineering: Light Current at the Vaal University of Technology, I commenced an Internship Programme at the South African National Space Agency (SANSA). The internship lasted a year, after which I was employed as an Operator. Three years later, I am now a Satellite Ground Segment Technician at SANSA’s Hartebeesthoek station.

WHAT PERSONALITY TRAITS ARE NEEDED?

To work in this position one needs to be technically-minded and not afraid to take risks and make ad-hoc decisions. You should be able to think on your feet, especially when working night shifts and with international clients.

ANY ADVICE FOR NEWCOMERS?

Focus, practice discipline

and be passionate about the job to make sure that you succeed in this field.

FUTURE GOALS?

Ultimately, I would like to work with the team that builds satellites, analyses the telemetry and performs satellite commanding as well.

EXPERIENCE VERSUS FORMAL TRAINING?

As a Satellite Ground Segment Technician, experience is important.

Having studied Electrical Engineering in light current, the more obvious career paths would lean towards those in the mobile and networking industries. Once you know more about the industry you work in, you will find it easier to apply the knowledge that you have received at a training institution.

My job is technicallyorientated and the more you work with a certain system, the better you understand it.

Did you know South Africa has a space agency? The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) was established in 2010 and aims to be a leading contributor to advancing society through space science, engineering and technology.

The space agency is involved in satellite development, launch support and monitoring the Earth from space using satellite imagery. SANSA also conducts space physics research and works in interesting places like Antarctica and Marion Island as well as collaborating with other African countries, Europe, Asia and America. The Agency hosts the only Space Weather Centre in Africa which monitors solar activity; keeping our satellite communication systems safe.

SANSA has four directorates; Earth Observation, Space Operations, Space Science and Space Engineering, dedicated to the promotion and use of space and space-related activities. The SANSA team is a diverse group of scientists, engineers, educators and support staff members working together in service of humanity.

SANSA: TEL: 012 844 0500 WEB: www.sansa.org.za EMAIL: infomation@sansa.org.za Find us on facebook South African National Space Agency Tweet us @SANSA7

NGO worker

WELL COORDINATED WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO WORK IN THE NGO SECTOR?

My career actually chose me. I returned to South Africa after living abroad for eight years and wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. I found a temporary job with a very small NGO, which later became permanent. I learnt to do everything from financial management, HR, editing documents and project coordination, and even picked up some librarian know-how.

WHAT DOES YOUR JOB INVOLVE?

I coordinate public meetings on topics relating to international affairs with fascinating guest speakers from all over the world. I also facilitate two programmes for schools: one is a high school quiz on international affairs involving 50 schools and 200 learners, the other is the Model United Nations Program, which is new to Cape Town.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

I studied African Politics at UCT, but mostly received on-the-job training.

IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO THIS WORK?

Yes, someone who is a good networker with plenty of patience and a strong desire to broaden their knowledge. Organisational skills are paramount.

IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING?

Yes, it is through hands-on experience that you probably learn the most.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB

P H OTO :

P E T E R

R U D D E N

Every day is different depending on the deadline and demands at the time. I have a multitude of checklists and calendars and folders on the go at any given moment. I spend a lot of time on the phone and working on my computer.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK?

I like the fact that it’s varied and interesting, and that I get to be my own boss.

I LIKE THE FACT THAT IT’S VARIED AND INTERESTING

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Pippa Segall

PROJECT COORDINATOR / CONSULTANT SOUTH AFRICAN INSTITUTE OF INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS, WESTERN CAPE (AMONGST OTHERS)

WHICH ASPECTS OF THE JOB ARE YOU LEAST KEEN ON?

I never seem to have enough hours in my days and often work late into the night. There are no set working hours. There is also no consistency, which can be a good and bad thing.

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER?

The opportunity to meet famous, and wonderful people; travelling around Africa; learning from experts.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS? To earn more money!

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN YOUR CAREER?

You can’t expect to earn a huge salary working in the NGO sector – it’s so different from the corporate world and there is no profit incentive. Therefore you need to stay motivated and want to make a difference in the world in order to enjoy job satisfaction.

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS Making a difference.

optometry

FOR YOUR EYES ONLY WHY OPTOMETRY?

I think the profession chose me because it was not my intention to study optical dispensing. I wanted to do mechanical engineering but was too late for registration.

I thought that I should do dispensing just to keep me busy until something opened up in the engineering department. As I got involved with it, I realised I liked it and never looked back.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

I completed two years at the Cape Technikon (CPUT) and one year of in-service training at an optometric practice.

WHAT PERSONALITY TRAITS ARE REQUIRED?

You have to possess great interpersonal skills because you deal with people on a daily basis.

HOW DOES EXPERIENCE COMPARE TO TRAINING?

Experience is very important, because all the theory that we do can never prepare us enough for the day-to-day things that go down in an optometric practice!

P H OTO :

P E T E R

R U D D E N

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY AT THE PRACTICE

Every day is different, but it generally starts off with contacting the different suppliers and checking on when we can expect our orders. Then it’s onto checking the spectacle prescriptions that come in and aligning the glasses.

In between that it’s obviously helping customers as they come into the practice.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? The people… I love dealing with

Thabo Nabe

DISPENSING OPTICIAN BAUER OPTOMETRIST

different people on a daily basis.

Yes, you get some difficult clients, but in general the customers are great to chat to.

WHICH ASPECTS ARE YOU LEAST ENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT?

The constant struggle with suppliers to get things in on time.

They just don’t seem to get that we care about our clients and want to get their glasses to them as speedily as possible.

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER THUS FAR?

The opportunity to work on the Phelophepa Health Care Train as their dispensing optician for two years. We were providing primary health care to rural South Africa; it was very fulfilling.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE?

I would definitely like to open my own practice and provide services to the people who require them the most.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN THE FIELD OF OPTOMETRY?

I would tell them that they must keep at it. The world of optical dispensing is a very exciting one with many opportunities available to those who pursue it, largely because of the fact that it is not a very well-known career choice in this country.

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS

Exciting, Fulfilling and Challenging.

i love dealing with different people on a daily basis post matric 2013

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finance

ADDING MEANING TO MONEY Khathu Ramukumba

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER NATIONAL YOUTH DEVELOPMENT AGENCY

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THE FINANCIAL INDUSTRY?

When I first started high school my mother told me to focus on accounting so I eventually chose it as a subject. At the time I didn’t know much about the profession, but later on in 1995 I read an article in The Sowetan about the first black chartered accountant in South Africa, Mr Wiseman Nkhuhlu. At the time there were only 96 qualified CA’s in South Africa. The article motivated me to defy this structural situation in which black people were being left out of this privileged career path and I made it my personal goal to become a qualified CA.

Training to become a CA is a four-step process involving: A BCom degree in Accounting, an Honours degree with Certificate of Theory in Accounting, two board examinations, firstly through SAICA and secondly through IRBA and, finally, three years training at an auditing firm.

P H OTO :

J O

S P I E S

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

50 //

WHAT MAKES A GOOD CA?

An analytical person who pays attention to detail. CA’s are required to analyse financial data and advise management on organisational strategies based on this information.

EXPERIENCE VS TRAINING?

Practical experience is definitely required, therefore CA’s are required to complete three years formal training known as articles.

Upon embarking on a career as a CA, one has to be an expert in accounting, management, taxation and auditing.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY

A large portion of my days are spent in meetings advising colleagues and management on how to best deploy available funds. In addition to this, financial information needs to be constantly analysed to inform management decisions. I also have to oversee the daily operations and functioning of the organisations procurement processes. I generally work an 18-hour day.

100% commitment and passion is needed post matric 2013

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST?

Giving meaning to rands and cents means the most to me, but money alone means nothing without efficient management. What matters above all else is bringing about change with the money we have. The meaning found in the rands and cents of the NYDA is the change it brings to a young person’s life.

WHAT AREN’T YOU KEEN ON?

I hate that I often have to disappoint other Executive Managers who need finances to implement new programmes or grow existing ones. Unfortunately, I have to be the person to tell them that there is simply no more money to put their plans into place.

ADVICE FOR STUDENTS

Chartered Accountancy is a hectic career path, both educationally and practically.

100% commitment and passion is needed to succeed and overcome the long hours studying in order to qualify and then the long working hours.

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS ha enging •

n • rogressive

BUILDING A BRIGHT FUTURE Zoliswa Gila

TOWER CRANE OPERATOR WORKED ON 2010 STADIUM

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO DO THIS JOB?

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WHAT TRAITS DOES A CRANE OPERATOR NEED TO POSSESS?

IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS TRAINING?

It’s not an easy job. People don’t understand that women can do this – they know that it’s dangerous and they think you will kill them! You can’t be nervous; you have to be calm at all times.

You carry a bucket of concrete weighing three tonnes and move it to another place. We sometimes move people to the top structure in man-cages, whilst having to avoid pylons. We also have cranes working next to each other, so you have to be very focused. You can’t be scared because you are alone up there. Even though you have a banksman on the ground with

The training is very important. You must know what you are doing. A tower crane is a lifting machine – if you treat it wrong, it will treat you wrong. However, experience makes you much more comfortable doing the job. The crane I’m operating now is 70 metres but I can also operate a 90-metre crane. I was so proud in 2010. I pointed and said “I built that stadium”.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY

I do my inspection of the crane before I climb up at 7am. I call my banksman to make sure the radios are connecting as we must

people don’t understand that women can do this

S U T H E R L A N D

I was taught how a tower crane works. There is a computer screen in front of you in the cab that tells you everything: if the crane has a problem, it warns you; it shows the wind speed; it shows your load from the point of pick up to where to drop it; and how you must slew with the jib. This job is very precise and the computer helps with that. You learn about electricity:

a radio telling you where to pick and drop off a load, you cannot just take instructions as they sometimes make mistakes. You must communicate at all times and be a team-player.

B R U C E

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

there is an electricity box in the cab – if there is a problem with the crane, you must be able to fix it. You must recognise when there is a problem and know when to report it.

P H OTO :

I always wanted to be up in the sky and to do something different.

My dream was to be a pilot. I was unemployed for four years and looking for work when I found out that WBHO wanted to train people as tower crane operators. I applied, they called me, tested me in maths and English, and after that we went through training. A lot of people applied, but during training found out that they were scared of heights, or they failed the assignments. Eventually we were six women, of whom four failed. At the end of the training I was the only women, along with 15 men, who passed.

construction

be in contact all day. We have a tea break and then back to work.

We work until lunch break and then straight through until 6pm. I make sure I go to the ladies before climbing up!

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK?

I like my job because it’s my dream come true being in the sky.

I’ve learnt a lot of new things.

WHAT AREN’T YOU KEEN ON?

Guys used to give me a really hard time. When I started it was not easy, the foreman used to say “I don’t want women working in my area”. But now that they see how well I work, they fight to have me working in their section.

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER?

The fact that I’m doing something that very few women do. Now I have the confidence to do anything. A big day was when I met President Zuma at the 365 days to the 2010 World Cup kickoff. He said he had seen me on TV and was looking forward to meeting me. Another one was when the city’s communications director organised for me to have my first flight in a helicopter – that was so amazing.

WHAT ARE YOU GOALS FOR THE FUTURE?

I’d like to start a business – to buy a small car to rent out. I still hope to become a pilot one day!

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE STARTING OUT? You must fight for what you want.

Don’t say “I can’t do that, it’s for men”. Just go for it. A woman who is a crane operator must be cool because men can be rude. You must be reliable and on time. You must be open to working overtime.

accounting

Fidel Castro Rolse

TRAINEE ACCOUNTANT THE AUDITOR-GENERAL OF SOUTH AFRICA (AGSA)

life is not always black or white but sometimes a mixture of colours. It has also taught me that instead of always criticising, one should roll up one’s sleeves and do some work to make the changes one wants to see in our country.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU DO?

I had to go to university where I completed my undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications in accounting. After that I signed up for a three-year article clerkship. I am currently in my final year.

WHAT PERSONALITY IS BEST SUITED TO THIS WORK?

I have seen both introverts and extroverts on the job and both do their jobs exceptionally well.

EXPERIENCE VS TRAINING?

Experience is just as important as formal training. With formal training someone explains something to you, but I have

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realised that whenever I learn something on the job there is always a ‘wow’ moment.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY

The first thing I do when I get to work is to crack a joke or two with colleagues. After that I read a newspaper online just to see whether there have been any events that affect any of our clients. After that we have an informal team meeting with regards to what the objectives for the day are. I interact with a lot of people on a daily basis, especially because we are often with clients. As strange as it may sound, auditing requires a lot of communication, so that definitely is a skill that one needs.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?

My job has changed the perception I had about the South African government. It has taught me that

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE?

The day I signed my article contract with the AGSA is definitely the highlight of my career so far. “We value and recognise our people” is one of the values of the organisation. AGSA made a promise to its employees, and as an employee I can say that they are sticking to it.

WHAT ARE YOU GOALS FOR THE FUTURE?

I would like to make a difference in the lives of others. I know that I won’t be able to change the entire world, but I believe that every little bit counts. So, if I can affect the lives of many South Africans in a positive way, it will be a mission accomplished. One of our other values at the AGSA is “Our accountability is clear and personal”, and this is another factor that definitely motivates me.

S P I E S

Because I always liked accounting.

It was my favourite subject at school, and at university I liked it even more. A lot of my friends did not like the subject, while I could not get enough of it.

J O

WHY ACCOUNTANCY?

That will definitely be the long hours on the job! This job is deadline driven and one is sometimes required to work overtime just to get the job done.

More hours on the job means less time with family, which is why I do not like overtime that much.

P H OTO :

ULTIMATELY ACCOUNTABLE

WHICH ASPECTS ARE YOU LEAST KEEN ON?

ANCHORS AWAY

slug tomaritime go here

x

your practical time at sea and what you learn practically tends to stay in your memory.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY

Abdul Qader Hendricks

NAVIGATION CADET OFFICER SEASPAN SHIP MANAGEMENT

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?

From a young age I had a love for aviation and US Navy fighter jets and aircraft carriers. Back then I wanted to pursue a career in aviation or navigation, specifically on an aircraft carrier. I learnt more about these career paths through my own research, and ultimately decided to enroll myself at a school where I would do two extra subjects to do with the maritime industry as a Grade 10 learner.

P H OTO :

C R E D I T

I F

S U P P L I E D

A N Y

H E R E

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

I had the great advantage of obtaining a bursary from Transnet National Ports Authority to attend school at Simon’s Town High, where I did two extra subjects (Nautical Science & Maritime Economics). I gained an enormous amount of knowledge during those three years, which included various practical training and training voyages on ships. After I matriculated, I completed one year of my National Diploma in Maritime Studies at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology. The second year is required in order to graduate and post matric 2009

to become a Chief Navigating Officer or Master Mariner. After completing my first year, I joined a company to complete my practical sea experience (minimum 12 months). I am currently busy with my practical sea time at a Canadian based company, Seaspan Ship Management, and I require five more months service before I am able to write my Deck Officer of the Watch unlimited examination, which will enable me to sail as a Third Navigating Officer onboard ships trading worldwide. I have also completed various STCW courses and other training at Samtra during the past year or so.

IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO THIS WORK?

Yes, it’s definitely not for the fainthearted. You should be a strongwilled person who knows what responsibility means, is able to make important decisions and can remain calm under pressure.

IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING?

I believe that experience is one of the most important aspects. Most of your knowledge is gained during

As a Navigating Officer, your primary duties are to keep navigational watches. The watches are divided between Chief, Second and Third Navigating officers, each shift consisting of eight hours per day. As a Third Navigating Officer, I would be in charge of watches (08:00– 12:00, and 20:00–midnight).

Additional responsibilities include the maintenance of life-saving and fire-fighting equipment as well as any important task allocated to me by the Master. There are also other secondary duties.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE MOST?

That each day poses a new challenge, and that the learning never stops. I love travelling around the world visiting major cities and meeting people of diverse cultures.

WHAT AREN’T YOU KEEN ON?

Spending time away from home.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS?

The adrenaline rush that I get when navigating the world’s oceans in traffic-congested waters.

YOUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE?

To further my navigation career and to obtain my Class 1 unlimited license (Master Mariner). I would love to work ashore as a Ship Surveyor or Marine Harbour Pilot.

ADVICE FOR YOUNG MARINERS?

You should be passionate and goal orientated. As a trainee officer, take in as much as possible because once you are qualified you take on a great load of responsibility and there’s no room for mistakes. post matric 2013

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Interfacing African Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Modern Sciences BACHELOR OF INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS (B.IKS) B.IKS is a multi-disciplinary qualification which has been designed to prepare learners with the necessary knowledge, skills and values relating to Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS). The qualification is based on a holistic approach to understanding IKS and lays a solid foundation for learners to gain academic and practical competencies.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

THE BACHELOR OF IKS AIMS TO:

Four year Degree Programme (480 credits)

Affirm African cultural values and integrate IKS into the formal educational system.

Promote cooperation between educational institutions, business, industry and local communities.

Contribute to sustainable livelihoods and development through utilizing IKS as a resource in innovation.

Promote understanding of IKS globally including affirmation of indigenous knowledge holders.

Matriculation with Exemption and/or Advanced Level Certificate

DURATION OF THE PROGRAMME JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Public and private sector, within and outside South Africa. The fields include: science and technology, health, law, education, tourism, environment, agriculture, rural development, etc.

FINANCIAL AID Students can apply for bursaries and educational loans from various financial institutions such as: National Research Foundation (NRF), National Indigenous Knowledge Systems Office (NIKSO), National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), Thuthuka, Fundza Lushaka, Edu Loan, Eskom, Telkom etc.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT THE FOLLOWING INSTITUTIONS: University of North West: (018) 389 2294 University of Limpopo: (015) 268 3133 University of Venda: (015) 962 8131 Department of Science and Technology: (012) 843 6314 Alternatively visit the following link/website for detailed information on a qualification: http://reggs.saqa.org.za and use the following qualification ID 63429 to search for B.IKS

CREDIT: MEDICAL RESEARCH COUNCIL OF SOUTH AFRICA

epistemology

KNOWLEDGE SHARING WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?

Because African indigenous knowledge systems, ways of knowing and epistemologies have been dominated and marginalised by the Eurocentric and Western knowledge systems for more than 400 years. Interfacing indigenous knowledge in the education system is one strategy of decolonising and transforming the education system in South Africa, and Africa.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

After completing Matric, I enrolled with the North West University for a Bachelor of Social Sciences. I did my B.A in Indigenous Knowledge Systems and M.A in Indigenous Knowledge Systems at North West University, Mafikeng campus.

I was also trained as an indigenous researcher, doing research in local communities and working with indigenous knowledge holders and practitioners including scientists and researchers.

WHAT PERSONALITY TRAITS ARE REQUIRED?

One has to be professional, compassionate, strategic and humble, as well as wise, innovative and creative. When working with people, arrogance and anger have no place.

HOW DO YOU RATE EXPERIENCE VERSUS FORMAL TRAINING? Nothing beats experience.

Capacity building for indigenous researchers and scholars is critical.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY IN YOUR LINE OF WORK

Teaching and research is what I do most of the time. I don’t only spend time in the classroom, as I

Motheo Koitsiwe

BACHELOR OF INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS: PROGRAMME COORDINATOR NORTH WEST UNIVERSITY

know that community is another classroom where there is a wealth of knowledge to be gained.

YOUR FUTURE GOALS?

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN YOUR CAREER?

That it provides me with an opportunity to engage with local indigenous knowledge holders, practitioners, other researchers, scientists and scholars both from Africa, and internationally.

WHICH ASPECTS ARE YOU LEAST ENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT?

Spending hours in long meetings.

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER THUS FAR?

That would be when I enrolled for my PhD in IKS at North West University.

To become an indigenous knowledge professor.

Indigenous knowledge is broad, complex and multidisciplinary.

Therefore, it is advisable for one to have a specialisation in IKS. For instance one can specialise in aspects of African cultural astronomy, African metallurgy, African indigenous science, African traditional healing systems and practices, etc.

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS

Interesting, challenging and innovative.

Training and research is what I do most of the time post matric 2013

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beauty therapy

SOOTHE THE SOUL Nadine Iqani

BEAUTY THERAPIST

SOOTHE BODY & SKINCARE STUDIO

I obtained a two-year international diploma and underwent in-service training at Tops Salons and Spas in Cape Town.

WHAT MAKES FOR A SUCCESSFUL BEAUTICIAN?

You need to be able to communicate and take an interest in people’s lives; to be able to relate to them, listen to them and be understanding.

IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING? Yes, definitely. The more practical experience, the better.

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post matric 2013

WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?

That I am constantly doing different treatments, so it never gets boring, and that I get to meet all types of interesting people. I also learn all sorts of new things from them every day.

ANYTHING THAT YOU AREN’T TOO KEEN ON?

That would be the bookkeeping!

When I opened my own salon in November 2009.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE?

To open a few more salons, and to source other beauty products in the market which are not available in South Africa and become a distributor.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE ASPIRANT BEAUTICIANS?

Don’t become despondent, because salaries aren’t great when you are starting out. Remember that as with most things, practice makes perfect.

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS

Exciting, Social and Practical.

the more practical experience, the better

R U D D E N

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

Clean the salon, make sure all the laundry has been done and ensure that the beds have fresh towels.

Check the messages, the day’s appointments and stock levels. Do the books, cash up, balance petty cash and do the banking. The rest of the day is hands-on doing treatments with the clients.

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?

P E T E R

I always enjoyed doing make-up, hair and nails as I was growing up, and also wanted to be able to work for myself and be flexible timewise. I enjoy it when people leave the studio feeling better about themselves after I have finished giving them a treatment.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY IN THE SALON

P H OTO :

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY?

catering

WELL CATERED Hugh Ingpen CO-OWNER

SUNFLOWER CATERING & BAR SERVICES

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO OPEN SUNFLOWER CATERING?

Lydia, my wife and partner, and I had many years combined experience in the hospitality industry. We got to a point where we recognised a need for a onestop shop for events and catering, where clients could arrange a complete function through one company without needing to search all over for the different services required, i.e. food, bar, staff, hiring, décor, venues and entertainment. So we launched our own company and it has proven to be very successful.

WHAT ARE THE QUIRKS OF THE BUSINESS?

R U D D E N

A function begins with planning, planning, planning.

If you are well prepared and have checked all the finer details, the execution should be seamless. We finish the cooking and packing of vehicles early (if possible), and usually arrive at a function about two hours before to set up the bar, prep food and set up the venue. Complicated venues can take longer. Once the guests arrive it is all about timing, caring and detail. We carry on until the last guest leaves smiling.

Then it’s clean up, pack up and head home.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY THE MOST?

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

Catering can be highly stressful. There can be many hiccups that put pressure on the team and cause delays. Working with people is not always easy, but good planning is the key.

WHAT MAKES FOR A GOOD CATERER?

P E T E R

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB

Our business is unusual in that we are often asked to create new concepts and themes for functions in unusual places such as on boats, on top of mountains and in wine cellars.

I was trained through the Wits Hotel School and also completed a Southern Sun Hotels three-year inservice Higher Diploma. Lydia learnt the ropes working in the film industry, catering for shoots on set.

P H OTO :

formal training, although a solid educational grounding will give you the confidence and motivation needed to succeed in this game.

Before you get into the industry you need to establish whether you have a passion for food and entertaining.

You need to be an outgoing, strong-willed person with a lot of energy and enthusiasm. You also need to be creative, patient and have an eye for detail. Catering can be very stressful as you are dealing with people, food, time and constantly changing environments where many things can, and do, go wrong. You have to be able to think on your feet and find creative solutions to any issues that may arise.

EXPERIENCE VERSUS FORMAL TRAINING?

I have certainly learned more on the job than through

It is highly satisfying having a group of people enjoying a fantastic function that you have created.

WHAT ARE YOU LEAST KEEN ON?

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER? Being awarded the contract to cater for the 2012 Junior World Cup Rugby by SARU and successfully handling all the venues, players and dignitaries without any major hiccups. We were also chosen as a finalist in the Cape Talk/Softline Pastel Small Business Awards.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE?

To see Sunflower Catering become a household name for its high standards and uncompromising attention to detail and caring.

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS Stressful, rewarding and profitable.

post matric 2013

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take note ‘MAKE FRIENDS WITH THE NERDS – I MEAN THE CLEVER PEOPLE!’ Vimlesh Govender, Second Year, University of KZN

‘BE DETERMINED AND KNOW EXACTLY WHAT YOU WANT IN ORDER TO FINISH. LET NO MOMENT BE A DULL MOMENT.’ Geralt Cloete, Acting, City Varsity ‘READ A LOT OF BOOKS; BE OPEN TO NEW THINGS.’ Lucinda Maseko, Acting, City Varsity

‘IF THE ASSIGNMENT IS DUE IN TWO WEEKS, DO IT THE FIRST NIGHT. DON’T WAIT OR THE WORK WILL PILE UP.’ Vuyiseka Wawini, Public Relations, CPUT

SURVIVE FIRST-YEAR

Strategic advice on making the most of first-year at college or varsity from those who have bravely gone before you…

‘YOU MUST BE ABLE TO WORK UNDER PRESSURE.’ Yandiswa Gxwala, Public Relations, CPUT WITH Zenande Rawuzela, PR, CPUT ‘IF YOU LOVE WHAT YOU DO YOU WILL SURVIVE BECAUSE EVEN THE HARD WORK IS FUN AND GAMES.’ Deshen Padayachee, Animation, City Varsity ‘SUCCESS IS LIFE. DON’T FORGET TO LAUGH.’ Sibohle Lujalajala, Public Relations, CPUT

‘STOCK UP ON ENERGY DRINKS.’ Miki Webster, Industrial Design, CPUT

62 //

post matric 2013

‘MAKE SURE YOU PRIORITISE AND FOCUS.’ Sihle Qekeleshe, Public Relations, CPUT

‘ENJOY TIME IN THE SHOWER WHILE YOU CAN. YOU DON’T GET MUCH TIME TO SHOWER ONCE YOU’RE AT VARSITY.’ Kalin Oelofse, Industrial Design, CPUT

‘90% OF SUCCESS IS SHOWING UP ON TIME. EAT PLENTY OF VEGGIES.’ David Traub, Acting, City Varsity

‘GO TO YOUR LECTURES AND DON’T SPEND TOO MUCH TIME CHILLING.’ Sonam Narayan, Second Year, University of KZN

‘READ A LOT AND KEEP UP TO DATE WITH CURRENT NEWS ISSUES.’ Zanele Khambi, Public Relations, CPUT ‘THEY ARE NOT GOING TO BABYSIT YOU HERE. ASK QUESTIONS IF YOU ARE NOT SURE – THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A STUPID QUESTION.’ Simpiwe Tyatyeka, Public Relations, CPUT ‘MAKE FRIENDS EARLY ON SO THAT YOU HAVE PEOPLE TO TALK TO ABOUT ASSIGNMENTS AND DEADLINES; IT’S ALL VERY NEW.’ Ryan Higgo, Industrial Design, CPUT

‘IMAGINE A TRIANGLE: ONE POINT IS SLEEP, ONE STUDY AND THE OTHER SOCIAL LIFE. YOU CAN ONLY CHOOSE TWO!’ Theo Thethemohoto, Jewellery Design, CPUT

‘SPEND MORE TIME WORKING IN THE LIBRARY THAN YOU SPEND DRINKING.’ Jen van Heerden, Social Anthropology, UCT SOSO

25 L E A R N

‘PRIORITISE AND REMEMBER – PARTYING DOES NOT COME FIRST.’ Caroline Meyer AND ‘TAKE A GAP YEAR.’ Roland du Preez Multimedia & Design, City Varsity

‘FACE YOUR FEARS. DO MORE ESSAYS.’ Eduard Adams, Acting, City Varsity ‘SLEEP WHILE YOU CAN. REDUCE HANGOVERS.’ Evan Hughes, Industrial Design, CPUT

‘YOU NEED TO BUY A LOT OF CLOTHES WHEN YOU GET TO VARSITY; IT’S LIKE A FASHION PARADE.’ Busie Zenzile, Public Relations, CPUT post matric 2013

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backchat

CRAM, BAM, NO THANK YOU MA’AM How not to study by award-winning magazine editor, funnyman and high school procrastinator Robbie Stammers.

64 //

post matric 2013

accessories for the eighth time and began studying.

Flash forward to midnight and I felt suitably impressed with myself, closed my books and hit the hay with the intention of waking up at sparrow fart to go over my revisions one last time. Problem was, I could not sleep. I was still so wired from the BioPlus that I felt like a hamster running full blast in its little wheel, or a prisoner of war being tortured with jack cables clamped to his nipples!

I think I managed just one hour’s sleep after the BioPlus wore off at 4:30am. I then slept like the dead, until being shaken awake with ten

minutes to go before my lift arrived.

I was so out of it during the exam that I would have made the perfect extra in a zombie movie.

I didn’t remember a damn thing from my night of cramming, and I can assure you that even Julius Malema’s woodwork marks looked amazing compared to my results.

That was the first and last time I tried BioPlus, and I subsequently dropped Science for my final year (or it dropped me, I cannot recall).

I don’t recommend you chaps copy my tricks, and if you do, at least read the instructions on anything that offers you mental alertness before you slug any back!

2

movie, perhaps it’s time to put the highlighter down and read instead of colouring in.

Stop nest building. I know that in the time of major exam stress one can suddenly feel the urge to fix up your working area. This results in you spending two hours crafting the perfect study zone, right down to the lighting in the room and zen positioning of everything on your desk. Don’t do it.

Everything is just fine the way it is.

Forget the phrase “I will just reread my notes”. This does not count as studying. Especially if you are doing it whilst watching X-factor.

3

4

M I K E

Hoarding things. Many students take to stockpiling hand outs, photocopies, printouts and textbooks in the days leading up to exams. You are not squirrels and the simple fact is that having loads of books around you is not going to make you any smarter.

Overuse of highlighters. These pretty kokis might also be known as Magic Markers but they are not really magic!

They do perform a great function by making the page light up with lovely, bright colours, but they don’t instantly upload data to your brain, you need to do that all on your own. If your textbook starts looking like a rerun of the TRON

S H U T T E R S TO C K /

1

E L L I OT T

A few more things to avoid when preparing for exams...

I L L U S T R AT I O N :

L

et’s kick off with the definition of Cramming…

“An emergency testpreparation strategy that involves an attempt to absorb copious amounts of information in a short period prior to an exam”. Or, a last minute memorisation technique that only lasts for the short-term.

We’ve no doubt all been there; it’s the moment that finds you staring down the barrel of exams with the hideous realisation that you’ve left everything way too late.

I remember the night before my Grade 11 mid-year Science exam like it was last week. It was the one subject that I had skirted around, under and away from, and now here I was on the eve of the exam in an absolute panic. But my ability to make a plan was second to none, even then. I called mom and asked her to purchase me some BioPlus en route home from work.

When she arrived back with the answer to all my problems, I snatched the bottle and read the instructions. “Physical energy and mental vitality that will last for hours” I was sorted! Off I went to catch the latest episode of South Park before dinner.

By 8pm I had settled down at my desk. I took a few big slugs directly from the BioPlus bottle, pulled out my highlighters, rearranged my

CONTACT DETAILS: Bloemfontein Campus: 5 4 Thaba’Nchu Campus: 051-873 5200 Hillside View Campus: 5 4 33 entral Office 5 4 6 3 Website: www.motheofet.co. a Email: mar eting motheofet.co. a

Find the Answers to your Future

1. PRE GRADE 12 PROGRAMMES .

Trimester ational 3 Certificate (Registration January, May and September) Engineering Electrical heavy current and light current Metalwor , Mechanical Engineering, Motor Engineering and Civil Engineering.

1.2 Grade 12 for upgraders (old and new syllabus) (Registration January) .3 F evels 4 (Registration anuary) • Civil Engineering Construction • Education and Development • Electrical Infrastructure Construction • Engineering and Related Design • Finance, Economics and Accounting • Hospitality • Tourism • Information Technology and Computer Science • Management • Mar eting • ffice Administration • Safety in Society • Transport and ogistics

2. POST GRADE 12 PROGRAMMES .

Trimester ational 4 6 Certificate (Registration January, May and September) Electrical heavy current and light current Engineering Metal, Mechanical, Motor Engineering and Civil Engineering

at Motheo FET College .

Semester ational 4 6 Certificate (Registration January and July) • isual Art and Design ( ewellery and raphic Design) • usiness Studies Management Assistant • Clothing roduction • Educare (Early Childhood Development) • Hospitality and Catering Services • Tourism • Management Studies usiness Management, Human Resources, Financial Management and Marketing Management .3 F evel 4 Services SETA (Registration January) • Hair Dressing and eauty Technology

3. GENERAL

3. Satellites in the Motheo and hariep regions 3. Accredited wor shops 3.3 earnerships and S ills Training Subject to ce rtain require ments, bursaries are available to al l students.

Requiremen ts: • Certified co py of applicant s ID • roof of re gistration • atest scho ol/college resu lts • arent(s)/ uardian(s) proo f of income • Affidavit in case of unem ployment • roof of tra nsport and ac commodation expenses