Career clubs launched

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GEORGE NEWS - The Eden Central Karoo Education District officially launched its Primary Schools Career Club programme at the Anew Resort Wilderness on Monday 16 February.

In his opening address, Graham Fourie, the district's general education and training co-ordinator, described the career clubs for primary schools as a groundbreaking initiative and the first of its kind in South Africa.

The programme provides a structured pathway for life orientation educators to guide learners in navigating career choices in a rapidly changing job market shaped by technology and artificial intelligence. For many learners, selecting a career path is challenging; these clubs aim to encourage informed and forward-thinking decisions.

Dr Ismail Teladia, a senior curriculum planner, said the launch represents the fulfilment of a long-held vision. A co-author of several life orientation manuals currently in use, he played an instrumental role in drafting the proposal, which has been adopted by the Western Cape Government as the flagship programme under its Growth for Jobs Strategy. If successful in the province, the model could be rolled out nationally. Already, the career clubs concept has been adopted by the Department of Basic Education.

Watch: to learn more about how Career Clubs is reshaping career guidance for the next generation.

The clubs encourage learners to look beyond traditional professions such as medicine, law and teaching, and to consider skilled trades, including plumbing, electrical work, boilermaking and welding. Opportunities in sectors such as hospitality and fishing are also highlighted. The 2026 theme, "Choices", emphasises the importance of informed subject and career decisions.

A key concern raised was the decline in mathematics enrolment. In 2025, an estimated 70-75% of Grade 10 learners opted for mathematical literacy instead of mathematics.

Of the 64 540 Grade 12 learners in the Western Cape, only 14 800 completed mathematics. Many university faculties do not accept mathematical literacy as an entry requirement, limiting access to higher education. In some cases, schools no longer offer mathematics, forcing learners to seek alternatives elsewhere.

With youth unemployment at 62.2%, according to Stats SA's August 2025 release, the programme promotes early career awareness, entrepreneurship and self-reliance as essential tools for future success.

Adri Stoffels (subject advisor), Dr Ismail Teladia (senior curriculum planner) and Graham Fourie (general education and training co-ordinator). Photos: Marguerite van Ginkel