Learning for Employment: Challenges Encountered by Students

Abstract

This paper discusses the challenges that are faced by students at the University of Botswana in learning for employment. There has been a complaint from employers that the University of Botswana does not produce students who are ready for employment. Based on this problem, this study investigated learners’ views on learning for employment so as to unearth challenges that students encounter in learning for employment. This study adopted a qualitative research approach and it used the open ended questionnaires, interviews and focus groups to tease out information from the University of Botswana students. Students who participated in this study were selected from different levels (year groups). The findings indicated that learners encountered challenges at various stages of their learning. Such challenges include but are not limited to: more concentration on theory than practice, large classes, lack of job opportunities, limited time for practice in the world of work and lack of supervision in attachment placement. The study concludes that a reflection is necessary for lecturers, the university and employees in various organizations to assist learners to gain skills for employment.