“Most matriculants don’t even have a basic understanding of the working environment let alone the work experience required by most recruitment adverts. But how do you get experience when you don’t have a job?” he asks.
Rajan believes that the solution to unlocking future career aspirations for our youth and for the unemployed is through learnerships.
A learnership is a work-based learning programme that leads to a qualification registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). Generally a 12-month programme, learnerships require that you complete a theoretical course at a training provider as well as practical training, which usually takes place in the work environment. Together, they form an integrated and comprehensive learning programme.
“Learnerships were introduced by the government to help skill learners and to prepare them for the workplace. At EduPower, we achieve this by fast-tracking real skills in a contact centre environment which greatly increase our learners’ opportunities for employment,” says Rajan.
He adds that when you register for a learnership, you don’t have to pay any application or study fees. In fact, while in the learnership, you work, learn and even earn simultaneously. “Learners receive a monthly payment called a stipend which covers expenses such as travel and meals. The amount varies and depends on the company sponsoring the learnership, as well as the academic level being completed.”
“While the stipend is great, when you are considering a training provider, be sure to ask if they include soft skills training. At EduPower, our learnerships include digital skills, communication, teamwork and critical thinking to name a few. This helps prepare our learners for the workplace and teaches them the soft skills that every employer expects,” Rajan advises.
What do you need to qualify for a learnership?
According to Rajan, even though matric is strongly preferred, EduPower does accommodate learners with Grade 11 for some of their courses. He also adds that even though 18 to 35 years old is a requirement for most, in some instances EduPower has waived the 35 year age limit to accommodate people with disability.
Rajan says there are a number of ways to apply for a learnership, including:
Rajan concludes by saying that the first step to your future career is getting out there and making it happen for yourself. “Learnership programmes are more than just skills and practical experience. If you have a great attitude and make the most of the opportunity to learn and prove yourself, they are one of the most effective gateways to better employment or self-employment opportunities.”