Preparing Rural Learners for Life after High School in South Africa

Abstract

This chapter examines how rural secondary schools prepare learners for life after high school in South Africa. The future for high school learners is now full of uncertainties, and it is increasingly becoming difficult to predict one’s future. The high unemployment rate, limited opportunities for youth, high poverty rate, widespread inequality, relatively low pass rates (learning outcomes) for rural high schools all shape the context in which learners struggle to make informed decisions about their future and careers. The focus is on the role and relevance of career guidance and counselling in preparing learners for the future. Drawing on the capability approach, this chapter considers the avenues that may help rural high school learners to make informed decisions that could enable them to change their lives. The chapter argues that high school education should introduce and prepare learners to the realities of the world of work and society while nurturing their aspirations. The review indicates that there is inadequate focus on empowering rural learners to choose paths that will allow them to flourish as socially responsible, engaged and creative global citizens. The chapter suggests an approach that can enable learners to identify, engage and make the most of future career opportunities in a dynamic environment.